High-dose treatment with a long-acting somatostatin analogue in patients with advanced midgut carcinoid tumours.

OBJECTIVE

High-dose somatostatin analogue treatment has shown an antiproliferative effect in one study including patients with neuroendocrine tumours. To explore this therapeutic strategy further, we have studied the effect of a high-dose formula of octreotide, octreotide pamoate, in midgut carcinoid patients.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Twelve patients with advanced midgut carcinoid tumours with a median duration of disease of more than 5 years were included. All were in a progressive state despite several previous treatment modalities. Octreotide pamoate (160 mg) was given as an intramuscular injection every 2 weeks for 2 months and then monthly. Radiological and biochemical responses were monitored.

RESULTS

Tumour size and biochemical markers were stabilised for a median of 12 months in 75% of the patients. Ten patients had symptomatic improvement of flush and diarrhoea.

CONCLUSION

In this group of patients with advanced midgut carcinoid tumours and progressive disease, octreotide pamoate managed to improve symptoms, and stabilise hormone production and tumour growth in 75% of the patients. We believe that high-dose treatment with somatostatin analogues can be an important addition to the therapeutic arsenal for patients with advanced progressive midgut carcinoid tumours.