The usefulness of the sensitivity test which considers the metabolism of anti-cancer drugs for gastric cancer

The usefulness of the sensitivity test of anticancer drugs and the examination of the enzymes relating to the metabolism of 5-FU for selecting adequate drugs was evaluated. The specimens of forty-two patients were used for the sensitivity test of anti-cancer drugs and for measurement dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD). Twenty-four patients received adequate chemotherapy judged by both examination and remained 18 patients received other therapy. Eight of 12 curative C patients receiving adequate therapy had PR or long NC. Only 2 of 9 patients receiving inadequate therapy had PR or long NC. The 2-year-survival rate of the patients receiving adequate therapy was 56.6% and that of the patients receiving inadequate therapy was 25.5%. The selecting method of anticancer drug considering the results of the sensitivity test and the DPD expression was useful for advanced gastric cancer patients.