A pilot trial of combination cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil and interferon-alpha in the treatment of advanced esophageal carcinoma.

Background/objectives: Based on the synergistic effect between cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and between 5-FU and interferon-alpha, we conducted a trial to assess the response rate and toxicity of the combination of cisplatin, 5-FU and interferon-alpha in patients with advanced esophageal cancer.

Methods: Patients with locally advanced or metastatic squamous cell or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus were eligible. No prior chemotherapy or interferon were allowed.