Late course accelerated hyperfractionation radiotherapy for elderly patients with esophageal carcinoma

Objective: To study the clinical results and prognostic factors of late course accelerated hyperfractionation radiotherapy (LCAHR) in the treatment of esophageal carcinoma in the elderly. Methods: 105 over 60 year-old patients with esophageal carcinoma who received radical LCAHR, were retrospectively analysed. Radical tumoricidal dose of 67.9-72.0 Gy was delivered in 39-43 fractions over 42-53 days. Results: The 5-year local control rate was 63.7%. The 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival rate were 22.6% and 34.4%. Acute esophagitis and bronchitis were the most common but acceptable radioreactions Grade 1-2. No significant differences were found either in the clinical response or complication, between the 60-69 year and 70-80 year groups. By multivariate analysis, T stage and KPS score were two independent prognostic factors. Of 67 death cases, 31 died of local relapse, 23 of distant metastases, 8 of both and 5 of other causes. Conclusions: LCAHR toxicity, being tolerable for the older esophageal carcinoma patients, may improve their survival and quality of life