Concurrent cisplatin and radiotherapy for patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer who are not candidates for radical cystectomy

Abstract

Purpose: We assessed the results and prognostic factors in patients with bladder cancer treated conservatively with concurrent cisplatin and radiotherapy.

Materials and methods: A total of 109 patients with localized muscle invasive bladder cancer who were not candidates for radical cystectomy underwent concomitant chemotherapy and radiation. Median patient age was 70 years. Of the patients 36% had stages T3B and 4 tumors, and 37% had benefited from prior macroscopically complete transurethral resection. Pelvic irradiation consisted of 40 to 45 Gy., and was followed by a boost to the bladder to a total dose of 55 to 60 Gy. Continuous infusion cisplatin (20 to 25 mg./m.2 daily for 5 days) was delivered during weeks 2 and 5 of radiation therapy.

Results: Median followup was 54.8 months. The projected 4-year locoregional control rate was 47.6% for the 109 patients and 61.2% for 76 with a complete response. Projected overall 4-year survival was 41.9% for all patients and 51.4% for complete responders. Univariate analysis of prognostic factors was done for local control and survival. Local control was statistically better in patients with a good performance status, stages T2 and 3A disease, complete initial transurethral resection and without hydronephrosis. In terms of overall survival 4 factors were significant: 1) performance status, 2) T stage, 3) absence of hydronephrosis and 4) complete response. By multivariate analysis performance status, hydronephrosis and T stage were significant factors for local control, while T stage and complete response were the strongest determinants for survival.

Conclusions: Concurrent cisplatin and radiation therapy is a potentially curative and conservative treatment for patients with localized muscle invasive bladder cancer who are not candidates for radical surgery, particularly those with intravesical stages T2 and T3A tumors.