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Meta-analysis shows tamoxifen associated with increased response to chemotherapy for advanced melanoma

A meta-analysis evaluated the results of nine randomized controlled trials of systemic chemotherapy therapy with or without tamoxifen on the response and mortality (primary outcomes) of 1,290 patients with advanced melanoma. Patients receiving tamoxifen were more likely to attain an overall response (relative risk 1.36; P = 0.02); however, there was no difference in the 1- or 2-year survival rates. Patients on tamoxifen were however 36% more likely to respond to chemotherapy and were more likely to attain a partial response (P = 0.0002). Hemotoxicity was increased in the tamoxifen group (54%) versus the non-tamoxifen group (34%). None of the trials reported quality of life outcomes and this could be investigated in ...