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The role of sequential chemoradiation for local advanced oropharyngeal carcinoma

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Abstract

Background

This study aims to assess survival, prognostic indicators, and pattern of failure for advanced oropharyngeal cancer treated by induction chemotherapy followed by concomitant chemoradiation (sequential CRT).

Methods

A retrospective review of 80 consecutive patients who underwent chemoradiation [doublet cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (PF)] for local advanced oropharyngeal carcinoma at a tertiary center from March 2003 to July 2008 is reported. Seven studies utilizing a similar protocol were reviewed, and all outcomes are collated.

Result

At a median follow-up of 32 months, the 3-year overall survival was 75 %. Tumor size (p < 0.001), age at presentation (p < 0.002), and failure to complete the full course of induction chemotherapy (p < 0.01) were all found to be significant factors affecting survival.

Conclusion

Induction chemotherapy followed by concomitant chemoradiation utilizing doublet PF is an effective treatment for local advanced oropharyngeal carcinoma. At present, the addition of a taxane to the PF regimen cannot be assumed to provide benefit until further evidence emerges from a representative controlled trial.

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Acknowledgments

We thank Miss Rebecca Harvey and Dr. Richard Parker (Cambridge Institute of Public Health) for help with statistical analysis. We also thank Dr. Rachel Christie for help with data collection.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of ENT, Cambridge University Hospitals Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK

    Liam Masterson

  2. Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK

    Faiz Tanweer

Authors
  1. Liam Masterson
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  2. Faiz Tanweer
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Liam Masterson.

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Masterson, L., Tanweer, F. The role of sequential chemoradiation for local advanced oropharyngeal carcinoma. Int J Clin Oncol 18, 808–816 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10147-012-0448-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10147-012-0448-y

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