What Does FFCT Mean in Chemotherapy?
FFCT stands for a chemotherapy regimen containing Fluorouracil, Folinic acid, Cyclophosphamide, and Taxane (either docetaxel or paclitaxel). This combination is primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer, though variations of fluorouracil-based regimens are used across multiple cancer types.
Components of FFCT
The FFCT regimen consists of:
- Fluorouracil (5-FU): An antimetabolite that interferes with DNA synthesis
- Folinic acid (Leucovorin): A folate derivative that enhances the efficacy of fluorouracil
- Cyclophosphamide: An alkylating agent that damages DNA and prevents cancer cell replication
- Taxane: Usually docetaxel or paclitaxel, which are antimicrotubule agents that disrupt cell division
Related Chemotherapy Regimens
FFCT is part of a family of combination chemotherapy regimens that include:
- FAC/CAF: Fluorouracil, Adriamycin (doxorubicin), Cyclophosphamide 1
- FEC: Fluorouracil, Epirubicin, Cyclophosphamide 1
- FOLFOX: Folinic acid (leucovorin), Fluorouracil, Oxaliplatin 1
- FOLFIRI: Folinic acid (leucovorin), Fluorouracil, Irinotecan 1
- Super-FEC: Cyclophosphamide, Epirubicin, high-dose Folinic acid, and 5-Fluorouracil 2
- CMFF: Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate, 5-Fluorouracil, and Folinate (folinic acid) 3
Clinical Applications
FFCT and similar regimens are commonly used in:
- Breast cancer: As adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy, particularly in combination with other agents 1
- Colorectal cancer: Fluorouracil-based regimens like FOLFOX and FOLFIRI are standard treatments 1
Toxicity Profile
Common adverse effects of FFCT include:
- Hematologic toxicities: Neutropenia, leukopenia, and anemia 1, 3
- Gastrointestinal effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mucositis 2, 3
- Alopecia: Hair loss is common with many components of this regimen 3
- Neurotoxicity: Particularly if a taxane is included 1
Clinical Considerations
- Dose modifications may be necessary based on patient factors including age, performance status, and organ function
- Growth factor support (G-CSF) may be required due to the high risk of febrile neutropenia with these combination regimens 1
- Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function is essential during treatment
- Premedication with antiemetics is typically required to manage nausea and vomiting
The specific dosing and schedule of FFCT may vary depending on the cancer type, stage, and institutional protocols. The regimen represents one of many fluorouracil-based combination therapies that form the backbone of treatment for various solid tumors.