Non-allergic nature of docetaxel-induced acute hypersensitivity reactions.

Based on observations of a discrepancy between 'hypersensitivity' reactions to docetaxel (DT) and the clinical features of allergic reactions, we explored the hypothesis that DT-induced acute hypersensitivity reactions (AHRs) have a non-allergic origin. Forty cancer patients receiving DT and 16 patients receiving other potentially allergenic chemotherapeutic agents were included in the study. All DT patients received standard pre- and post-medication.

Evidence for in vivo synergism between docetaxel and gemcitabine in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Background: The docetaxel and gemcitabine combination is active as salvage therapy in taxane-resistant/refractory patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). We conducted a phase II study to determine if this activity is due to an in vivo synergistic effect.

Patients And Methods: Women with measurable MBC, who were refractory or resistant to docetaxel monotherapy as first- or second-line treatment, were enrolled.