Benefits afforded by combined temozolomide, radiation and stem cell strategy for glioma therapy

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of temozolomide, radiation and stem cell therapy in glioma management. Methods: A total of 112 patients with glioblastoma were divided into four groups, each of 28 patients. Group I received daily temozolomide at 150 mg/m(2); Group II radiotherapy of 30.0 Gy; Group III mesenchymal stem cells only; and Group IV all three treatments (temozolomide 100 mg/m(2) + 30.0 Gy of radiotherapy + two infusions of mesenchymal stem cells, weekly for 3 weeks. All patients were assessed 1, 6, and 12 months following the conclusion of treatment. Results: Of Group I patients, the maximum improvement in tumor diameter was 58 % but only 28 % ultimately survived. Of Group II patients, the maximum improvement was 49 % but, again, only 28 % survived (p = 0.06 for both groups). Of Group III patients, the maximum improvement was 71 % and 40 % survived. Of Group IV patients, who received all three treatments, the maximum improvement was 80 %. The survival rate was 60 %. Conclusion: Stem cells improved patient outcomes and may be a useful alternative therapy for glioma.