Article
Palliative radiochemotherapy (RCHT) with Cetuximab at recurrences of squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the head and neck
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Published: | July 8, 2008 |
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Introduction: Extensive recurrences of SCC of the head and neck after primary therapy are a challenge with limited potentiality. The time of survival from the point of local recurrence is reported 4–11 month. An approach with palliative intention by combined RCHT with Cetuximab for extensive local recurrences of SCC is presented.
Methods: Seven patients with extensive local recurrence and initial UICC stage 3 and 4 were treated in palliative intention by RCHT with Cetuximab. All patients received initially a primary or adjuvant radiation therapy of 60–70 Gy. The inoperable recurrence was radiated with 30–40 Gy at site of the recurrence. Simultaneously chemotherapy with Cetuximab was given(400 mg/m2–250 mg/m2 (6x)). The overall survival time from the point of recurrence and point of palliative RCHT as well as adverse events were evaluated.
Results: The mean survival time was 16 month (SD 10, min 6, max 36) from the point of recurrence and 10 month (SD 5,5, min 3, max 17) from the beginning of the therapy. The adverse events were low according to the Common Toxity Criteria. Acne as the most common adverse event was observed from grade 1 to 2. No lethal adverse events were observed. The general conditions of the patients were not impaired by the therapy.
Conclusion: The combined RCHT with Cetuximab with palliative intention in patients with extensive local recurrences of SCC is demonstrated as an effective and low in side effects way of treatment. The mean time of survival from the point of recurrence is prolonged by 5 month compared to published data. The therapy induced adverse events are tolerable. The quality of life is not altered by the RCHT.