Concurrent chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancers in older patients: Outcomes and their determinants

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Meta-analyses have shown concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) provides no survival benefit over radiotherapy in patients of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) aged over 70 years. This study was performed to determine the adverse-effect profile, compliance, functional and oncological outcomes in patients of HNSCC over 70 years of age treated with CCRT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of stage III/IV HNSCC in patients above 70 years of age who received CCRT at our institution (n = 57). Cox-proportional hazards regression model was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: There were 57 patients of stage III/IV HNSCC who underwent curative CCRT. 61% completed chemotherapy with no deaths and acceptable toxicity. The predictors of recurrence were poorer performance status (P = 0.031) and treatment breaks (P = 0.04). Tube dependence was associated with 2.7 times higher risk of mortality (P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: CCRT should be considered standard of care in those over seventy with good performance status. Patients with tube dependence have a higher risk of persistent disease or treatment related mortality.