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Abstract
An indirect comparison of cisplatin-pemetrexed (CP) and cisplatin-raltitrexed (CR) was performed. The Odds Ratios of 10, 15 and 20 month survival rate and response rate were assumed as indexes of efficacy; the Odds Ratio of grade III–IV side effects, and the absolute risk of overall, hematologic and non-hematologic toxicity, were assumed as indexes of safety. The outcomes of 352 patients were analysed. The Odds Ratios and 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) of 10, 15 and 20 months survival rate and response rate were 1.2 (95% CI 0.65−2.24, p = 0.559), 1.02 (95% CI 0.49−2.12, p = 0.953), 1.13 (95% CI 0.44−2.91, p = 0.805) and 0.56 (95% CI 0.26−1.21, p = 0.141), respectively. An absolute increased risk of grade III–IV side effects was observed for CP: 6% (95% CI 3–9%, p < 0.001), 9% (95% CI 2–16%, p = 0.008) and 3% (95% CI 0–5%, p = 0.035) for overall, hematological and non-hematological toxicity. CP and CR can be considered comparable in terms of efficacy in the treatment of metastatic pleural mesothelioma, with a modest increased risk of grade III–IV side effects for CP.