Meta-analysis of regression of advanced solid tumors in patients receiving placebo or no anti-cancer therapy in prospective trials. (February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ghatalia, Pooja; Morgan, Charity J.; Sonpavde, Guru
• Is Part Of: Critical reviews in oncology/hematology. Volume 98(2016)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2016-02
• Subjects: Spontaneous regression -- Placebo -- Meta-analysis -- Immune therapy; Oncology -- Periodicals; Hematology -- Periodicals; 616.994
• DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.10.018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-8428

Abstract

Abstract: Background: A meta-analysis of prospective trials systematically investigated regression of advanced solid tumors in patients receiving placebo or no anticancer therapy to inform on spontaneous regressions. Patient and methods: Arms of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of metastatic solid tumors receiving placebo or no anti-cancer therapy were used. Statistical analyses were conducted to calculate the overall response rate (ORR) and to detect differentials based on histology, progression at baseline and prior therapies. Results: A total of 7676 patients were evaluable from 61 RCTs evaluating 18 solid tumors. The ORR was 1.95% (95% CI: 1.52–2.48%). There was no significant effect of histology ( p = 0.110), baseline progressive disease ( p > 0.20) or the line of therapy ( p > 0.20) on ORR. Conclusions: Spontaneous regressions are seen across all advanced solid tumors. Some malignancies demonstrated higher rates of spontaneous regressions and may be relatively immunotherapy responsive.