Background Despite improved screening techniques, diagnosis of lung cancer is often
late and its prognosis is poor. In the present study, in vitro chemosensitivity of
solid tumours and pleural effusions of lung adenocarcinomas were analysed and compared
with clinical drug response.Methods Tumour cells were isolated from resected solid
tumours or pleural effusions, and cryopreserved. Three-dimensional (3D) tissue aggregate
cultures were set up when the oncoteam reached therapy decision for individual patients.
The aggregates were then treated with the selected drug or drug combination and in
vitro chemosensitivity was tested individually measuring ATP levels. The clinical
response to therapy was assessed by standard clinical evaluation over an 18 months
period.Results Based on the data, the in vitro chemosensitivity test results correlate
well with clinical treatment response.Conclusions Such tests if implemented into the
clinical decision making process might allow the selection of an even more individualised
chemotherapy protocol which could lead to better therapy response.
