Extended-field radiation therapy with whole pelvis radiotherapy and cisplatin chemosensitization in the treatment of IB2-IIIB cervical carcinoma: a retrospective review

Abstract

Objective: This retrospective study evaluated the toxicity of extended-field radiation therapy (EFRT), whole pelvis radiotherapy, and concurrent chemotherapy in patients treated with IB2-IIIB cervical carcinoma.

Study design: Patients treated with EFRT, whole pelvis radiotherapy, and concurrent chemotherapy were analyzed for toxicity. Median prescribed dose to the whole pelvis was 45 Gy (45-50 Gy). Median prescribed dose to the paraaortic lymph nodes was 45 Gy (36-50). Thirty-five patients received cisplatin chemosensitization at a median dose of 40 mg/m(2) (40-51), with a median of 5 cycles (2-6).

Results: Thirty-six patients were treated, 3 with positive paraaortic lymph nodes. The median follow-up interval was 32 months. Twenty-four patients (66.7%) had no evidence of disease at last follow-up. Thirteen patients (36.1%) had recurrence. Fifteen patients (41.7%) experienced acute grade 3 toxicity.

Conclusion: Increased toxicity in patients warrants careful patient selection.