Background: Gastroesopheal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. If detected early, curative treatment is possible. Often, gastroesophageal cancer is detected at an advanced stage when therapy is palliative.
Objectives: To provide a critical evaluation of historic and recently developed chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of advanced gastroesophageal cancer (AGC).
Methods: Published clinical trials in AGC as well as selected abstracts presented at international oncology meetings were selected.
Results/conclusion: Chemotherapy has demonstrated a benefit over best supportive care alone by improving the quality and quantity of life for patients with advanced disease. Recent Phase III trials investigating cytotoxic chemotherapy and Phase II trials incorporating biotherapy for the treatment of AGC show promise for the future.