Study of Hypofractionated Radiotherapy Regime for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the response rates and toxicity of hypofractionated radiation therapy in locally advanced head & neck cancer patients who are not fit for concurrent chemoradiation or surgery. Material and Methods: Thirty patients were eligible for radical treatment (metastatic excluded) were received a total dose of 50 Gray (Gy) in 16 fractions, 3.125 Gy per fraction, total treatment time 3 weeks. Results: The overall response rates (CR + PR) were 70% and Stage wise [III, IVA and IVB ] overall response were 90.9%, 66.66% & 42.8%. Of all primaries. The hypopharyngeal cancer patients had the worst response rates with progressive disease in 20-33% of patients and laryngeal cancer patients having best response rates. Only one patient develop grade 4 mucositis for which he was hospitalized for conservative management. Despite the high rate of acute skin and mucosal toxicities, There were no dropouts or treatment breaks more than 7 days due to adequate nutritional and supportive management provided to the patients. The chronic grade 2 and 3 toxicities were higher for skin and mucous membrane.