PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: No concurrent prophylactic filgrastim (G-CSF) No concurrent prophylactic growth factors Chemotherapy: No prior chemotherapy for metastatic or advanced disease Endocrine therapy: Not specified Radiotherapy: At least 4 weeks since prior radiotherapy Concurrent radiotherapy allowed provided not all target lesions are in irradiated field Surgery: At least 2 weeks since prior major surgery Other: No other concurrent anticancer agents No other concurrent investigational therapy