Methotrexate therapy for squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. Intermittent intravenous dose program

Abstract

Fourteen of 27 patients with advanced squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck had objective responses to single, intravenous doses of methotrexate sodium, 20 to 50 mg given every 4 to 7 days. The median duration of response was 92 days. Four patients had complete remissions. Four patients did not have toxic reactions. Signs of toxicity in oral mucous membranes occurred in 12 of 14 responders and in 8 of 13 nonresponders. Moderate hematologic changes occurred in 4 responders and in 1 nonresponder. Severe hematologic signs of toxicity developed in 1 responder and in 5 nonresponders. One nonresponder died of drug toxicity. This regimen of methotrexate administration appears to be a practical and moderately effective treatment for the management of patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.