Targeted intra-arterial chemoradiation for advanced tonsil cancer

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the effects of combined radiation and targeted, intra-arterial (IA) cisplatin infusions (RADPLAT) in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tonsil.

Study design and setting: Prospective study of treatment outcomes and toxicity of patients enrolled on the RADPLAT protocol, with specific analysis of patients with advanced SCC of the tonsil.

Results: Thirty patients with advanced tonsil carcinoma (17 T(4), 12 T(3), 1 T(2)) were enrolled, and 24 of 30 patients completed at least 3 IA cisplatin infusions and a minimum of 63 Gy or radiation therapy (minimum therapy). Two-year estimated overall and disease-specific survival was 42% and 50%, respectively, for all 30 patients (intent-to-treat group) and 49% and 58%, respectively, for the minimum therapy subgroup. The 2-year estimated local and regional disease control was 87% and 90%, respectively, for the intent-to-treat group, and 100% and 90% for the minimum therapy subgroup. Functional organ preservation was achieved in 92% of patients.

Conclusions: Locoregional disease control achieved with this regimen appears to be significantly improved over that described in the literature for similarly staged tonsil cancer. Survival, on the other hand, remains comparable.