Radical chemo-irradiation using intensity-modulated radiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancer in elderly patients: Experience from a tertiary care center in South India

• DOI: 10.4103/ijc.ijc_78_17
• Publication Date: 2017-04-19T12:39:39Z
• Authors: JR Chalissery; PC Sudheeran; KM Varghese; K Venkatesan
• Keywords: Mucositis

To assess the feasibility, tolerance and response of radical chemo irradiation using Intensity modulated Radiotherapy [IMRT] in elderly patients [age >65] with locally advanced head neck cancer.Patients aged 65 above [range to 84years] registered oncology outpatient unit our institution between December 2011 2014, stage III IV cancer were treated dose radiotherapy IMRT concurrent chemotherapy cisplatin 40mg/sq.m weekly. Response evaluation toxicity profile assessment was done 6 8 weeks after completion treatment 3 monthly thereafter median follow up years.Total number analysed 47. 43(91.5%) tolerated 66-.70Gy 4 or more cycles weekly cisplatin. First at showed 81% having complete loco regional response. Grade skin reaction mucositis noticed 24% 47% respectively. No grade neutropenia observed. Median years a local control 53% overall survival 60%.Radical is feasible option. Long term benefits needs be followed up.