Conventional surgery and systemic chemotherapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin: A prospective study

Aims To report the results of standard therapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin, which consists of conventional surgery and systemic chemotherapy. Method In a prospective study 50 patients with proven peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin were treated with conventional surgery combined with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin, or irinotecan in patients treated by 5-fluorouracil within 12 months prior to entry. Survival and progression-free survival were studied and prognostic factors were analysed. Results The median survival time was 12.6 months. The median time to progression was 7.6 months. Location of primary tumour and result of conventional surgery and systemic chemotherapy were prognostic factors related to survival. Conclusion The survival time of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin seems to be increased in patients treated by conventional surgery and systemic chemotherapy when compared to minimal treatment.