Combination of radiotherapy with cisplatin for esophageal cancer

Combination of radiotherapy with Cisplatin was performed in order to improve the results obtained with radiotherapy alone in the treatment of esophageal cancer. The therapeutic effect of this regimen and administration of Cisplatin were analyzed in 7 primary and 8 recurrent esophageal cancer patients from April 1983 to February 1985 in N.I.R.S. Cisplatin 10 mg/m2, without hydration and diuresis, was given daily followed by radiotherapy of 2 Gy daily for five consecutive days. The course was performed for two consecutive weeks and repeated after a one-week withdrawal of Cisplatin alone. Total doses of Cisplatin were 200 mg and the total dosage of radiotherapy including fast neutrons was TDF 110 to 120. Cisplatin 30 to 50 mg/m2 was continued monthly for maintenance every four weeks after the second course. Response rates in primary and recurrent cases were 71.4 % and 62.5 % respectively. Administration of Cisplatin 10 mg/m2 daily was useful since nausea and vomiting rarely appeared and bone marrow toxicity and renal dysfunction as side effects were mild and reversible. In the combination of radiotherapy with Cisplatin, it seemed most effective to perform radiotherapy immediately after Cisplatin administration, considering the change in serum concentration. (author)