Combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy in the treatment of advanced head and neck cancer using cisplatin

Neoplasma. 1987;34(4):497-502.

Abstract

Between the years 1981-1984, 30 patients with advanced head and neck cancer (Stages III and IV) were treated by combined chemoradiotherapy. Chemotherapy with cisplatin was given before radiotherapy and three times after radiotherapy at the same dose (3 mg/kg body weight) monthly. Radiotherapy was administered with 60Co beam three times weekly in 17 fractions, at a total dose of 51 Gy. The results were summarized after completion of the combined therapy. Of the 30 patients 8 had complete remission (27%) and 13 patients had partial remission (43%). Adverse effects in this type of therapy were moderate and no serious complication occurred. The results were compared with a group of patients previously treated with methotrexate and radiotherapy. Optimal dosage of radiotherapy in combination with antineoplastic drugs is discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / therapy
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / therapy
  • Cisplatin / therapeutic use*
  • Cobalt Radioisotopes / therapeutic use*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Cobalt Radioisotopes
  • Cisplatin