Search

Supplementary Data: Tables S1-S2; Figures S1-S4

Table S1- Tumor response by RECIST criteria. Table S2- Treatment details and reasons for discontinuation.

Expanded methods for the study.

This is the legend for the supplemental figure

Purpose:Previous studies indicate that the benefit of therapy depends on patients' risk for cancer recurrence relative to noncancer mortality (ω ratio). We sought to test the hypothesis that patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) with a higher ω ratio selectively benefit from intensive therapy.Experimental Design:We analyzed 2,688 patients with stage III–IVB HNC undergoing primary radiotherapy (RT) with or without systemic therapy on three phase III trials (RTOG 9003, RTOG 0129, and RTOG 0522). We used generalized competing event regression to stratify patients according to ω ratio and compared the effectiveness of intensive therapy as a function of predicted ω ratio (i.e., ω score). Intensive therapy was defined as treatment on an experimental arm with altered fractionation and/or multiagent concurrent systemic therapy. A nomogram was developed to predict patients' ω score on the basis of tumor, demographic, and health factors. Analysis was by intention to treat.Results:Decreasing age, improved performance status, higher body mass index, node-positive status, P16-negative status, and oral cavity primary predicted a higher ω ratio. Patients with ω score ≥0.80 were more likely to benefit from intensive treatment [5-year overall survival (OS), 70.0% vs. 56.6%; HR of 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57–0.94; P = 0.016] than those with ω score P = 0.69; P = 0.019 for interaction). In contrast, the effectiveness of intensive therapy did not depend on risk of progression.Conclusions:Patients with HNC with a higher ω score selectively benefit from intensive treatment. A nomogram was developed to help select patients for intensive therapy.

Detailed genetic results

Photomicrographs of two ETV6-NTRK3 fusion cases.

Purpose:Interferon-α favors a Th1 shift in immunity, and combining with ipilimumab (ipi) at 3 or 10 mg/kg may downregulate CTLA4-mediated suppressive effects, leading to more durable antitumor immune responses. A study of tremelimumab and high-dose interferon-α (HDI) showed promising efficacy, supporting this hypothesis.Patients and Methods:E3611 followed a 2-by-2 factorial design (A: ipi10+HDI; B: ipi10; C: ipi3+HDI; D: ipi3) to evaluate (i) no HDI versus HDI (across ipilimumab doses) and (ii) ipi3 versus ipi10 (across HDI status). We hypothesized that median progression-free survival (PFS) would improve from 3 to 6 months with HDI versus no HDI and with ipi10 versus ipi3.Results:For eligible and treated patients (N = 81) at a median follow-up time of 29.8 months, median PFS was 4.4 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.7–8.2] when ipilimumab was used alone and 7.5 months (95% CI, 5.1–11.0) when HDI was added. Median PFS was 3.8 months (95% CI, 2.6–7.5) with 3 mg/kg ipilimumab and 6.5 months (95% CI, 5.1–13.5) with 10 mg/kg. By study arm, median PFS was 8.0 months (95% CI, 2.8–20.2) in arm A, 6.2 months (95% CI, 2.7–25.7) in B, 5.7 months (95% CI, 1.5–11.1) in C, and 2.8 months (95% CI, 2.6–5.7) in D. The differences in PFS and overall survival (OS) did not reach statistical significance. Adverse events were consistent with the known profiles of ipilimumab and HDI and significantly higher with HDI and ipi10.Conclusions:Although PFS was increased, the differences resulting from adding interferon-α or a higher dose of ipilimumab did not reach statistical significance and do not outweigh the added toxicity risks.

Purpose: We sought to identify genomic alterations (GA) in salivary gland adenocarcinomas, not otherwise specified (NOS), salivary duct carcinomas (SDC), carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (ca ex PA), and salivary carcinoma, NOS.Experimental Design: DNA was extracted from 149 tumors. Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) was performed on hybridization-captured adaptor ligation-based libraries of 182 or 315 cancer-related genes plus introns from 14 or 28 genes frequently rearranged for cancer and evaluated for all classes of GAs.Results: A total of 590 GAs were found in 157 unique genes (mean 3.9/tumor). GAs in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway were more common in SDC (53.6%) than other histologies (P = 0.019) Cyclin-dependent kinase GAs varied among all histotypes: adenocarcinoma, NOS (34.6%); SDC (12.2%); ca ex PA (16.7%); carcinoma, NOS (31.2%; P = 0.043). RAS GAs were observed: adenocarcinoma, NOS (17.3%); SDC (26.8%); ca ex PA (4.2%); and carcinoma, NOS (9.4%; P = 0.054). ERBB2 GAs, including amplifications and mutations, were common: adenocarcinoma, NOS (13.5%); SDC (26.8%); ca ex PA (29.2%); carcinoma, NOS (18.8; P = 0.249). Other notable GAs include TP53 in >45% of each histotype; NOTCH1: adenocarcinoma, NOS (7.7%), ca ex PA (8.3%), carcinoma, NOS (21.6%); NF1: adenocarcinoma, NOS (9.6%), SDC (17.1%), carcinoma, NOS (18.8%). RET fusions were identified in one adenocarcinoma, NOS (CCDC6-RET) and two SDCs (NCOA4-RET). Clinical responses were observed in patients treated with anti-HER2 and anti-RET–targeted therapies.Conclusions: CGP of salivary adenocarcinoma, NOS, SDCs, ca ex PA, and carcinoma, NOS revealed diverse GAs that may lead to novel treatment options. Clin Cancer Res; 22(24); 6061–8. ©2016 AACR.

This study reports the first clinical evidence of significantly high secretion of matrine in a multi-component botanical (Antitumor B, ATB) into human saliva from the systemic circulation. This is of high clinical significance as matrine can be used as a monitoring tool during longitudinal clinical studies to overcome the key limitation of poor patient compliance often reported in cancer chemoprevention trials. Both matrine and dictamine were detected in the saliva and plasma samples but only matrine was quantifiable after the oral administration of ATB tablets (2400 mg) in 8 healthy volunteers. A significantly high saliva/plasma ratios for Cmax (6.5 ± 2.0) and AUC0–24 (4.8 ± 2.0) of matrine suggested an active secretion in saliva probably due to entero-salivary recycling as evident from the long half-lives (t1/2 plasma = 10.0 ± 2.8 h, t1/2 saliva = 13.4 ± 6.9 h). The correlation between saliva and plasma levels of matrine was established using a population compartmental pharmacokinetic co-model. Moreover, a species-relevant PBPK model was developed to adequately describe the pharmacokinetic profiles of matrine in mouse, rat, and human. In conclusion, matrine saliva concentrations can be used as an excellent marker compound for mechanistic studies of active secretion of drugs from plasma to saliva as well as monitor the patient’s compliance to the treatment regimen in upcoming clinical trials of ATB.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is increasing rapidly. The younger age, significantly improved prognosis, and relative morbidity of the standard-of-care cisplatin and radiotherapy in this population have led to the popularization of the concept of treatment de-escalation. The recent results of the first 3 randomized de-escalation trials, however, have shown a clear detriment in survival when cisplatin is omitted or substituted. In view of these results, the Head and Neck Cancer International Group identified the need to issue guidance regarding future de-escalation studies for patients with HPV-positive head and neck cancer to avoid the possibility of patients being harmed. We review the current state of the literature regarding HPV de-escalation trials and present a framework and guidance on future and existing clinical trials for treatment de-escalation of HPV-positive OPC. De-escalation paradigms of HPV-positive OPC should be evaluated in phase II studies, and results should be awaited before proceeding to phase III studies. Implementation into clinical practice before high-level evidence is available should not be undertaken in this context. Finally, harm-minimization techniques should also be evaluated as an alternative to de-escalation of treatment in these patient groups.

To determine the effects of nodal yield on survival in early stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) in the context of primary tumor depth of invasion (DOI).Patients with early-stage clinically node-negative OCSCC who underwent upfront surgery at the primary site were identified using the National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2015.There were 3384 patients with4 mm DOI and 1387 patients with ≥4 mm DOI identified. Management of the neck included observation (40%), END with18 nodes harvested ± postoperative radiation (ND 18, 16%), and END with ≥18 nodes harvest ± postoperative radiation (ND ≥ 18, 44%). When adjusted for relevant covariates, ND ≥ 18 demonstrated statistically significant improvements in overall survival for both DOI 4 mm and ≥4 mm (DOI 4 mm: HR 0.67, 95%CI 0.54-0.85; DOI ≥ 4 mm: HR 0.47, 95%CI 0.34-0.64). However, ND 18 showed no significant difference from observation of the neck regardless of DOI (DOI 4 mm: HR 0.82, 95%CI 0.63-1.07; DOI ≥ 4 mm: HR 0.72, 95%CI 0.51-1.03). Of patients undergoing END, the most significant factors associated with obtaining a nodal yield of 18 or more were age less than 40 years (HR 2.58, 95%CI 1.84-3.63) and treatment at an academic facility (HR 2.47, 95%CI 2.06-2.96).END with 18 or more nodes is associated with improved survival outcomes in patients with early stage OCSCC regardless of DOI. END with less than 18 nodes, however, does not appear significantly different than observation of the neck alone. Achieving a lymph node yield of 18 or more is multifactorial and includes both patient and provider factors.

OBJECTIVES To determine the influence of nodal yield during neck dissection on survival in surgically managed human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancer. METHODS The National Cancer Database was used to identify patients with HPV-associated tumor T1 to T2 oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent upfront surgery with or without adjuvant therapy. Patients were stratified by lymph node yield (

192 Background: Ototoxicity is a common and treatment-limiting side effect of cisplatin. Rates of permanent hearing loss due to cisplatin treatment range from 40 to 80% and are associated with considerable morbidity and negative impact on quality of life. Currently, there are no FDA-approved therapies for preventing hearing loss caused by cisplatin. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) are of interest due to putative pleiotropic effects, decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress. Some preclinical and retrospective studies have shown reduction in cisplatin-related hearing loss with concurrent administration of statins. Objectives: This study's primary objective was to evaluate the impact of statin use on cisplatin-related hearing loss rates measured by change in Chang Grade (CG). Chang criteria was chosen as it allows for evaluation of hearing loss severity without the need for word recognition. This study also assessed the effect of statin dose intensity, cisplatin dose, and concurrent use of ototoxins on cisplatin-induced hearing loss. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of adult patients who received cisplatin within a single health care network between March 2010 and December 2020. Patients were included in this IRB-approved analysis if they had baseline and follow-up audiograms prior to and after cisplatin treatment. Each patient had data collected on primary cancer location, cumulative cisplatin dose, chemotherapy regimen, concurrent radiation treatment to the head and neck area, and ototoxin use. In addition, data on the type of statin used, its dose intensity were collected when applicable. Multivariable analysis of change in CG (primary outcome) was performed using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations. Results: A total of 367 patients were included in this study, of which 87 were using statins and 280 were not using statins concurrently during cisplatin treatment. Median age of study population was 63 and there was a male predominance (67%). Change in CG did not differ between statin users and non-statin users (p = 0.36). In the multivariable analysis, adjusting for statin use and age, hearing loss was predicted by cisplatin dose (OR 1.19 per 100mg; 1.09-1.30; p < 0.001) and use of radiation therapy (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.34-3.10, p < 0.001). Statin intensity did not have a significant effect on the change in CG when evaluating low-intensity (p = 0.34), moderate intensity (p = 0.77) or high-intensity (p = 0.44) compared to no statin use. Type of statin use and concurrent use of ototoxins also did not have a significant impact on the changes in CG. Conclusions: To our knowledge this is one of the largest retrospective analyses of statin’s impact on cisplatin related hearing loss. Our study found no difference in changes in CG hearing loss between statin users vs non-statin users. As expected, total cisplatin dose (mg) and concurrent radiation treatment remain important predictors of hearing loss.

420 Background: Oral Mucositis related pain is one of the most common radiation therapy (RT) related toxicities associated with the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC). Questionnaire-based assessment of mucositis pain is based on a patient's recall which can be inaccurate sometimes. Therefore, real-time monitoring of patient-reported pain is required for better evaluation of mucositis pain. Methods: We performed a single-arm, observational study (NCT02727062) to investigate the feasibility of a smartphone-based pain app (OMP) in assessing mucositis pain in locally advanced HNC patients(pts) undergoing a course of definitive or adjuvant RT (> 50 Gy), +/- chemotherapy, for oral cavity or oropharynx cancer. The app prompted pts to input pain severity scores using a visual analog (0-10) scale (VAS) at multiple time points during a day throughout the study. OMP software-generated time-weighted average weekly summary measure of pain by integrating multiple serial daily pain assessments. In addition, pts completed weekly Brief pain inventory (BPI) and MD Anderson head & neck symptom inventory (MDASI-HN) questionnaires. Feasibility surveys were also collected to assess the ease of use of OMP and the burden of study participation. Responses to questions on this survey were scored on a scale of 0-3, with 0 standing for not at all and 3 for extremely. Linear mixed models (LMM) controlling for person random effects were used to evaluate association and quantify differences between average weekly pain (AWP) calculated by OMP and AWP recorded using VAS by BPI survey (question 5). LMM was also used to evaluate the association between AWP score from OMP and BPI pain score with MDASI-HN scores. Descriptive statistics, including averages and frequency, were used to analyze feasibility surveys. Results: We report results of 15 pts who have complete data out of 18 registered pts. Using LMM, we compared AWP score curves calculated from BPI and OMP. We observed that both curves followed a parallel trajectory. However, pain scores calculated from OMP were 0.40 units higher than BPI pain. The Bland-Altman plot also confirmed that BPI pain and OMP did not clearly agree. Additionally, AWP scores from OMP had a positive correlation with fatigue (p < 0.001), drowsiness (p < 0.001), decreased activity (p < 0.001), and interference with work (p < 0.001) related scores recorded in MDASI-HN. In terms of feasibility, most surveys indicated that it was extremely easy for subjects to enter responses and not at all difficult for them to use all features of OMP. Furthermore, study participation did not interfere with subjects’ usual activities. Conclusions: Our study showed that pain scores calculated through OMP were, on average higher than those reported by BPI. It also showed the correlation between pain and physical activity. Hence, utilization of OMP in conjunction with questionnaires may improve our understanding of the severity of mucositis-related pain. Clinical trial information: NCT02727062.

2517 Background: Treatment options are limited for patients with recurrent or metastatic human papillomavirus 16 positive (HPV16+) cancers. Generation and maintenance of HPV16+ cancers requires stable expression of HPV16-specific E7 and E6 oncoproteins, which are also a source of tumor-specific immunogenic neoantigens. HB-201 and HB-202 are replicating live-attenuated vectors based on lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus and Pichinde virus, respectively, which express the same non-oncogenic HPV16 E7E6 fusion protein and infect antigen presenting cells to induce tumor-specific T cell responses. The Phase 1 part of this study of HB-200 therapy (HB-201 single-vector therapy and HB-202/HB-201 two-vector alternating therapy) was conducted to determine RP2D for further exploration alone or in combination with pembrolizumab. Methods: The Phase 1 part used a 3+3 dose escalation design with up to 3 dose levels (DLs) of HB-201 and 4 DLs of HB-202/HB-201 explored. Patients with HPV16+ head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) or with other HPV16+ cancers were evaluated. Safety, tolerability, immunogenicity, and preliminary antitumor activity by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 or immune RECIST were assessed to determine RP2D. Results: As of January 2022, 65 patients with a median of 3 prior anticancer treatments have been enrolled in the Phase 1 part of the study. All had HPV16+ confirmed genotype; the most common primary site was oropharynx, followed by anal and cervix. Adverse events were generally mild or moderate. For HB-201, 3 DLs, 2 dosing schedules and 2 administration routes were assessed across 40 patients. At DL3 of HB-201 administered intravenously (IV), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) occurred in 1/6 patients in the HNSCC group (Grade 4 encephalopathy, fully recovered) and 1/2 patients in the non-HNSCC group (Grade 3 rash, fully recovered). Preliminary safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity data support IV injection of DL3 (5 × 107 units) every 3 weeks (Q3W) as the RP2D for HB-201 single-vector therapy. For HB-202/HB-201, 4 DLs and 2 administration routes were assessed across 25 patients. At DL4 of HB-202/HB-201 IV, 1/5 subjects in the HNSCC group reported a DLT (Grade 4 hepatitis, recovering at time of discontinuation). RP2D for HB-202/HB-201 will be determined in the very near future. Tumor control, including partial response, have been observed in subjects treated with either HB-201 or HB-202/HB-201 as monotherapy. Conclusions: HB-201 and HB-202/HB-201 were generally well tolerated and showed preliminary antitumor activity in heavily pre-treated patients with HPV16+ solid tumors. DL3 was selected as RP2D for HB-201 monotherapy. In the Phase 2 part of the study a combination of HB-201 at 5 × 106 units IV Q3W with pembrolizumab is being tested in HPV16+ HNSCC patients. Clinical trial information: NCT04180215.

Background and purposeThe Meta-Analysis of Chemotherapy in squamous cell Head and Neck Cancer (MACH-NC) demonstrated that concomitant chemotherapy (CT) improved overall survival (OS) in patients without distant metastasis. We report the updated results.Materials and methodsPublished or unpublished randomized trials including patients with non-metastatic carcinoma randomized between 1965 and 2016 and comparing curative loco-regional treatment (LRT) to LRT+CT or adding another timing of CT to LRT+CT (main question), or comparing induction CT+radiotherapy to radiotherapy+concomitant (or alternating) CT (secondary question) were eligible. Individual patient data were collected and combined using a fixed-effect model. OS was the main endpoint.ResultsFor the main question, 101 trials (18951 patients, median follow-up of 6.5years) were analyzed. For both questions, there were 16 new (2767 patients) and 11 updated trials. Around 90% of the patients had stage III or IV disease. Interaction between treatment effect on OS and the timing of CT was significant (p&nbsp

PurposeTo examine the role age plays in the treatment and prognosis of locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC) treated definitively with radiation alone or combined modality therapy.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed of three NRG/RTOG trials examining either radiation alone or combined radiation and systemic therapy for LAHNC. The effect of age (≥70 yrs.) on cause-specific survival (CSS), overall survival (OS), and toxicity was evaluated.ResultsA total of 2688 patients were analyzed, of whom 309 patients (11.5%) were ≥ 70. For all studies combined, the hazard ratio (HR) for CSS for patients age ≥ 70 vs. those

Purpose: Interferon-α favors a Th1 shift in immunity, and combining with ipilimumab (ipi) at 3 or 10 mg/kg may downregulate CTLA4-mediated suppressive effects, leading to more durable antitumor immune responses. A study of tremelimumab and high-dose interferon-α (HDI) showed promising efficacy, supporting this hypothesis. Patients and Methods: E3611 followed a 2-by-2 factorial design (A: ipi10+HDI; B: ipi10; C: ipi3+HDI; D: ipi3) to evaluate (i) no HDI versus HDI (across ipilimumab doses) and (ii) ipi3 versus ipi10 (across HDI status). We hypothesized that median progression-free survival (PFS) would improve from 3 to 6 months with HDI versus no HDI and with ipi10 versus ipi3. Results: For eligible and treated patients (N = 81) at a median follow-up time of 29.8 months, median PFS was 4.4 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.7–8.2] when ipilimumab was used alone and 7.5 months (95% CI, 5.1–11.0) when HDI was added. Median PFS was 3.8 months (95% CI, 2.6–7.5) with 3 mg/kg ipilimumab and 6.5 months (95% CI, 5.1–13.5) with 10 mg/kg. By study arm, median PFS was 8.0 months (95% CI, 2.8–20.2) in arm A, 6.2 months (95% CI, 2.7–25.7) in B, 5.7 months (95% CI, 1.5–11.1) in C, and 2.8 months (95% CI, 2.6–5.7) in D. The differences in PFS and overall survival (OS) did not reach statistical significance. Adverse events were consistent with the known profiles of ipilimumab and HDI and significantly higher with HDI and ipi10. Conclusions: Although PFS was increased, the differences resulting from adding interferon-α or a higher dose of ipilimumab did not reach statistical significance and do not outweigh the added toxicity risks.

Background The optimal regimen of chemotherapy and reirradiation (re-XRT) for recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is controversial. We report the final outcomes of a multicenter phase II trial evaluating cetuximab and cisplatin-based chemotherapy concurrent with re-XRT for patients with recurrent HNSCC. Materials and methods Patients with unresectable recurrent disease or positive margins after salvage surgery arising within a previously irradiated field with KPS ≥ 70 were eligible for this trial. Cetuximab 400 mg/m2 was delivered as a loading dose in week 1 followed by weekly cetuximab 250 mg/m2 and cisplatin 30 mg/m2 concurrent with 6 weeks of intensity-modulated radiotherapy to a dose of 60–66 Gy in 30 daily fractions. Patients who previously received both concurrent cetuximab and cisplatin with radiation or who received radiotherapy less than 6 months prior were ineligible. Results From 2009 to 2013, 48 patients enrolled on this trial, 2 did not receive any protocol treatment. Of the remaining 46 patients, 34 were male and 12 female, with a median age of 62 years (range 36–85). Treatment was feasible and only 1 patient did not complete the treatment course. Common grade 3 or higher acute toxicities were lymphopenia (46%), pain (22%), dysphagia (13%), radiation dermatitis (13%), mucositis (11%) and anorexia (11%). There were no grade 5 acute toxicities. Eight grade 3 late toxicities were observed, four of which were swallowing related. With a median follow-up of 1.38 years, the 1-year overall survival (OS) was 60.4% and 1-year recurrence-free survival was 34.1%. On univariate analysis, OS was significantly improved with young age (P = 0.01). OS was not associated with radiation dose, surgery before re-XRT or interval from prior XRT. Conclusions Concurrent cisplatin and cetuximab with re-XRT is feasible and offers good treatment outcomes for patients with high-risk features. Younger patients had significantly improved OS. ClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier NCT00833261

Purpose/Objective(s) Approximately 30-40% of patients irradiated for HNSCC will develop locoregional recurrence or second primary tumors (RSPT). Treatment of RSPT originating within a previously radiated field presents a technical challenge and typically portends worse outcomes than an initial course of RT. Anti-PD-1 therapy has shown promise in the treatment of advanced HNSCC. CA209-9KY aimed to investigate the potential benefit of nivo during and after IMRT based re-irradiation in RSPT. We report here the toxicity and QOL data for 44 enrolled patients. Materials/Methods Following IRB approval at 3 participating institutions, patients were enrolled if they had RSPT arising in a previously irradiated field (> 40 Gy) and met criteria for reirradiation classes I or II (Ward et al, IJROBP 2018); prior salvage resection was allowed regardless of HPV status provided patients had positive margins, extranodal extension, gross residual disease, N2/3 or T3/4 disease, multifocal perineural invasion, and/or lymphovascular space invasion. IMRT reirradiation with photons was delivered in 60-66 Gy in 30-33 daily fractions over 6-6.5 weeks with Nivo (240 mg) two weeks prior to and every 2 weeks during IMRT for a total of 5 doses then at 480 mg every 4 weeks for a total of 52 weeks. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT-G) (Version 4) was assessed pre-therapy and weeks 6, 18, 30 and 52. The sum of FACT-G subscales (SUMQOL) score was also computed. Median and interquartile range (IQR) for each subscale and SUMQOL were recorded per cycle visit. FACT-HN was assessed at the same time intervals. Internal consistency reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha and reported for each FACT sub-scale at each cycle Results As of 1/2021, a total of 44 patients have completed IMRT with nivolumab with a median follow up duration of 6.3 mos [95% CI (4.5-11.2)]. The most common toxicities of any grade-(CTCAE version 4.0) were fatigue (77%), dermatitis (54%), and dysphagia (52%). Grade 3 or 4 toxicities occurred in 47% of patients, with lymphopenia being the most common (11%), followed by diarrhea (7%). Serious Adverse Event (SAEs) occurred in 20% of patients with the most reported being dyspnea (4%). The median total sumQoL scores for FACT-HN per visit were 71 (61-80), 73 (67-77), 70 (67.8-76.2), 74 (66.2-79.7) and 71 (66-79), respectively. Similar observations were seen for FACT-G Scores for subscales with a median total FACT-G sumQoL scores per visit 54 (46.2-56.8), 55(53.5-59.2), 54 (50-57), 55.5(52-58.2), and 55 (52.5-57.5), respectively. FACT-G and FACT-H&N QOL scores remained consistent across all time points analyzed. The internal consistency and reliability for the FACT scores per sub-scale, per cycle and for all response items had a Cronbach's alpha of > 0.7. Conclusion Reirradiation with IMRT with concurrent and adjuvant nivo in patients with RSPT appears to be well tolerated with preservation of QOL measures during and following completion of therapy. Follow up for clinical efficacy measures of IMRT-nivo continues.

Purpose 30-day hospital readmissions after head and neck cancer surgery continue to be a significant source of patient harm and healthcare expenditure. While there is substantial data in the literature assessing predictive factors for readmissions after head and neck cancer surgery, there are a paucity of studies which attempt to understand if such readmissions are preventable. The goal of this paper is to determine factors associated with 30-day hospital readmissions after head and neck cancer surgery and to understand if these readmissions were preventable. Materials and methods Retrospective review from a single academic tertiary care center. Patients readmitted within 30 days after undergoing surgery for cancers of the head and neck between 2015 and 2018 were identified. Results Over a 3-year period, 26 patients undergoing resection with or without reconstruction of head and neck cancers were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge. There were 15 (58%) men and 11 (42%) women with a mean age of 68 years (SD 14 years). Twenty-one (81%) patients had squamous cell carcinoma and 13 (50%) had a primary site in the oral cavity. Thirteen (50%) had undergone free or regional flap reconstruction. The indication for readmission was related to the surgical wound in 19 (73%) and to medical complications in 7 (27%). Each case was categorized as “possibly preventable” versus “uncertain if preventable” based on whether a reasonable and feasible change in management may have prevented readmission. Six (23%) readmissions were deemed possibly preventable. Four were related to the surgical wound where initial free or regional flaps may have prevented complication. Two were medical complications that may have benefited from longer inpatient observation. Conclusions For a subset of patients readmitted within 30 days of head and neck cancer surgery, a reasonable and feasible change in management may have prevented their hospital readmission. The significance of better understanding this patient population is underscored by the high mortality rate.

With the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors into clinical practice, various autoimmune toxicities have been described. Antibodies targeting the receptor:ligand pairing of programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) and its cognate ligand programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in rare reports have been associated with autoimmune diabetes mellitus. We report 2 cases of rapid-onset, insulin-dependent, type 1 diabetes mellitus in the setting of administration of nivolumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody to PD-1, and atezolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody to PD-L1. This appears to be the first report of autoimmune diabetes mellitus associated with atezolizumab. In addition, we provide a brief review of similar cases reported in the literature and a discussion of potential mechanisms for this phenomenon and propose a diagnostic and treatment algorithm.

Purpose: Previous studies indicate that the benefit of therapy depends on patients' risk for cancer recurrence relative to noncancer mortality (ω ratio). We sought to test the hypothesis that patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) with a higher ω ratio selectively benefit from intensive therapy. Experimental Design: We analyzed 2,688 patients with stage III–IVB HNC undergoing primary radiotherapy (RT) with or without systemic therapy on three phase III trials (RTOG 9003, RTOG 0129, and RTOG 0522). We used generalized competing event regression to stratify patients according to ω ratio and compared the effectiveness of intensive therapy as a function of predicted ω ratio (i.e., ω score). Intensive therapy was defined as treatment on an experimental arm with altered fractionation and/or multiagent concurrent systemic therapy. A nomogram was developed to predict patients' ω score on the basis of tumor, demographic, and health factors. Analysis was by intention to treat. Results: Decreasing age, improved performance status, higher body mass index, node-positive status, P16-negative status, and oral cavity primary predicted a higher ω ratio. Patients with ω score ≥0.80 were more likely to benefit from intensive treatment [5-year overall survival (OS), 70.0% vs. 56.6%; HR of 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.57–0.94; P = 0.016] than those with ω score Conclusions: Patients with HNC with a higher ω score selectively benefit from intensive treatment. A nomogram was developed to help select patients for intensive therapy.

6014 Background: Chemoradiation (CRT) with cis or anti-EGFR Ab has been shown to improve survival of patients with stage III-IV HNC. Since Lap, a dual EGFR and HER2 inhibitor, has shown effectiveness with CRT in a pilot non-HPV HNC cohort, the RTOG Foundation launched a phase II trial to test the hypothesis that adding Lap to the RT-cis for frontline therapy of stage III-IV Non-HPV HNC improves progression-free survival (PFS). Methods: Patients with stage III-IV carcinoma of the oropharynx (p16-negative), larynx, and hypopharynx, having Zubrod performance of 0-1, and meeting predefined blood chemistry criteria were enrolled after providing consent. Patients were randomized (1:1) to 70 Gy (6 weeks) + 2 cycles of CDDP (q3 weeks) plus either Lap (1500 mg daily, Arm A) or placebo (Arm B) starting 1 week prior to RT and concurrent with RT and for 3 months post RT. PFS was the primary endpoint. The protocol specified 69 PFS events (142 patients) for the final analysis based on HR = 0.65, 80% power, 1-sided alpha 0.20, and one interim efficacy and futility analysis at 50% information. PFS rates between arms for all randomized patients were compared by 1-sided log-rank test (1-sided alpha 0.1803). Overall survival (OS) was a secondary endpoint. Results: From 10/’12 to 04/’17, 142 patients were enrolled, of whom 127 were randomized, 63 to Arm A and 64 to Arm B. Arms A vs B, respectively, were similar in baseline patient characteristics, radiation delivery, completing ≥ 70 Gy (85.7% vs. 82.8%) and cisplatin delivery, completing 200 (±5%) mg/m2 (65.1% vs 70.3%), but dissimilar in Lap/placebo delivery (median dose, 87000 mg vs. 125250 mg). Median follow-up was 4.1 years for surviving patients. The final analysis suggests no improvement in PFS of adding Lap to CRT (HR [A/B]: 0.91, 95% confidence interval CI 0.56-1.46; P= 0.34; 2-year rates: 50.6%, CI 37.5-63.7% vs. 56.2% CI 43.0-69.4%), or in OS (HR: 1.06, CI 0.61-1.86; P = 0.58; 2-year rates: 71.8% CI 60.1-83.5% vs. 76% CI 64.5-87.4%), death within 30 days of therapy (3.3% vs. 3.4%), and overall treatment-related grade 3-5 adverse event rate (86.7% vs. 84.7%). Grade 3-4 mucositis rates on Arm A and Arm B were 21.7% vs. 23.7%, all grade dysphagia and rash rates were 43.3% vs. 59.3%, and 13.3% vs. 6.8%, respectively. Conclusions: The addition of Lap to the radiation-cisplatin platform did not improve progression-free or overall survival in unselected non-HPV HN. Thus, dual EGFR, HER-2 inhibition does not appear to enhance the effects of chemoradiation. Although we showed that accrual to a non-HPV HN specific trial is feasible, new strategies must be investigated to improve the outcome for this poor prognosis HN population.

Treatment of patients with locoregional recurrent or second primary head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) has been guided by well-reasoned principles and informed by carefully tested chemotherapy and radiation regimens. However, clinical decision making for this population is complicated by many factors. Although surgery is generally considered the treatment of choice for patients with HNSCC with recurrent disease or new second primary disease in a previously irradiated field, operability of cases is not always straightforward. Postoperative treatment is frequently warranted but carries significant risk. In addition, the rapid rise in the incidence of HPV-associated HNSCC raises the question of whether established treatment paradigms should be re-examined in this population of patients with a much better prognosis than the non-HPV population. Furthermore, new radiation techniques and new systemic agents show early promising results in recent clinical studies, suggesting potential for practice-changing effects in the future management of this disease. This article examines each of the treatment modalities used in the care of patients with HNSCC with recurrent or new second primary disease and provides a perspective to aid clinicians in the management of this disease.

To determine the oncologic outcomes of patients undergoing salvage surgery for recurrent oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) after initial treatment with surgery and adjuvant therapy.Retrospective case series with chart review.Five academic tertiary care centers.Patients included those with OCSCC and OPSCC who were initially treated with surgery and adjuvant therapy between 2000 and 2015 and underwent salvage surgery for local and/or regional recurrence.A total of 102 patients were included (76% OCSCC, 24% OPSCC). Five-year overall survival was 31% (95% CI, 21%-41%) and was significantly improved among patients with human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal tumors (hazard ratio [HR], 0.34; 95% CI, 0.11-0.98) and significantly worse for those with postoperative positive margins (HR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.43-4.93). Adjuvant (chemo)reirradiation was not associated with disease control or survival regardless of margin status. Combined locoregional recurrence was significantly correlated with a positive margin resection (HR, 5.75; 95% CI, 1.94-17.01). Twenty-five patients (25%) underwent a second salvage surgical procedure, of whom 8 achieved long-term disease control.Patients presenting with resectable recurrence after initial therapy with surgery and adjuvant therapy have a reasonable salvage rate when a negative margin resection can be attained. Patients with postoperative positive margins have poor survival outcomes that are not significantly improved with adjuvant (chemo)reirradiation. Those with combined locoregional recurrence are at particularly high risk for postoperative positive margins. The functional consequences of salvage surgery and its effect on quality of life are critical in decision making and require further investigation.

Background Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a subtype of malignant salivary gland tumors (MSGT), in which 90% of cases express cKIT. Dasatinib is a potent and selective inhibitor of five oncogenic protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs)/kinase families including cKIT. We conducted a phase II study to determine the antitumor activity of dasatinib in ACC and non-ACC MSGT. Patients and methods In a two-stage design, patients with progressive, recurrent/metastatic ACC (+cKIT) and non-ACC MSGT (separate cohort) were treated with dasatinib 70 mg p.o. b.i.d. Response was assessed every 8 weeks using RECIST. Results Of 54 patients: 40 ACC, 14 non-ACC (1, ineligible excluded); M:F = 28:26, median age 56 years (range 20–82 years), ECOG performance status 0:1:2 = 24:28:2, prior radiation: 44, prior chemotherapy: 21. The most frequent adverse events (AEs) (as % of patients, worst grade 2 or higher) were: fatigue (28%), nausea (19%), headache (15%), lymphopenia (7%), dyspnea (11%), alanine aminotransferase increased (7%), anorexia (7%), vomiting (7%), alkaline phosphatase increased (6%), diarrhea (6%), neutropenia (6%), and noncardiac chest pain (6%). No grade 4 AE occurred, 15 patients experienced a grade 3 AE, primarily dyspnea (5) and fatigue (4), and cardiac toxicity (1 prolonged QTc). Among ACC patients, best response to dasatinib: 1 patient (2.5%) had partial response, 20 patients (50%) had stable disease (SD) (3–14 months), 12 patients (30%) had PD, 2 withdrew, 3 discontinued therapy due to AE, and 2 died before cycle 2. Median progression-free survival was 4.8 months. Median overall survival was 14.5 months. For 14 assessable non-ACC patients, none had objective response, triggering early stopping rule. Seven had SD (range 1–7 months), 4 PD, 2 discontinued therapy due to AE, and 1 died before cycle 2. Conclusion Although there was only one objective response, dasatinib is well tolerated, with tumor stabilization achieved by 50% of ACC patients. Dasatinib demonstrated no activity in non-ACC MSGT.

Purpose To report secondary efficacy endpoints of Radiation Therapy Oncology Group protocol 0247, primary endpoint analysis of which demonstrated that preoperative radiation therapy (RT) with capecitabine plus oxaliplatin achieved a pathologic complete remission prespecified threshold (21%) to merit further study, whereas RT with capecitabine plus irinotecan did not (10%). Methods and Materials A randomized, phase 2 trial evaluated preoperative RT (50.4 Gy in 1.8-Gy fractions) with 2 concurrent chemotherapy regimens: ( 1 ) capecitabine (1200 mg/m 2 /d Monday-Friday) plus irinotecan (50 mg/m 2 /wk × 4); and ( 2 ) capecitabine (1650 mg/m 2 /d Monday-Friday) plus oxaliplatin (50 mg/m 2 /wk × 5) for clinical T3 or T4 rectal cancer. Surgery was performed 4 to 8 weeks after chemoradiation, then 4 to 6 weeks later, adjuvant chemotherapy (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m 2 ; leucovorin 400 mg/m 2 ; 5-fluorouracil 400 mg/m 2 ; 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m 2 ) every 2 weeks × 9. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated univariately by the Kaplan-Meier method. Local–regional failure (LRF), distant failure (DF), and second primary failure (SP) were estimated by the cumulative incidence method. No statistical comparisons were made between arms because each was evaluated individually. Results A total of 104 patients (median age, 57 years) were treated; characteristics were similar for both arms. Median follow-up for RT with capecitabine/irinotecan arm was 3.77 years and for RT with capecitabine/oxaliplatin arm was 3.97 years. Four-year DFS, OS, LRF, DF, and SP estimates for capecitabine/irinotecan arm were 68%, 85%, 16%, 24%, and 2%, respectively. The 4-year DFS, OS, LRF, DF, and SP failure estimates for capecitabine/oxaliplatin arm were 62%, 75%, 18%, 30%, and 6%, respectively. Conclusions Efficacy results for both arms are similar to other reported studies but suggest that pathologic complete remission is an unsuitable surrogate for traditional survival metrics of clinical outcome. Although it remains uncertain whether the addition of a second cytotoxic agent enhances the effectiveness of fluorouracil plus RT, these results suggest that further study of irinotecan may be warranted.

PURPOSE: Limited data exist to guide the treatment technique for reirradiation of recurrent or second primary squamous carcinoma of the head and neck. We performed a multi-institution retrospective cohort study to investigate the effect of the elective treatment volume, dose, and fractionation on outcomes and toxicity. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients with recurrent or second primary squamous carcinoma originating in a previously irradiated field (≥40 Gy) who had undergone reirradiation with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT); (≥40 Gy re-IMRT) were included. The effect of elective nodal treatment, dose, and fractionation on overall survival (OS), locoregional control, and acute and late toxicity were assessed. The Kaplan-Meier and Gray’s competing risks methods were used for actuarial endpoints. RESULTS: From 8 institutions, 505 patients were included in the present updated analysis. The elective neck was not treated in 56.4% of patients. The median dose of re-IMRT was 60 Gy (range 39.6–79.2). Hyperfractionation was used in 20.2%. Systemic therapy was integrated for 77.4% of patients. Elective nodal radiation therapy did not appear to decrease the risk of locoregional failure (LRF) or improve the OS rate. Doses of ≥66 Gy were associated with improvements in both LRF and OS in the definitive re-IMRT setting. However, dose did not obviously affect LRF or OS in the postoperative re-IMRT setting. Hyperfractionation was not associated with improved LRF or OS. The rate of acute grade ≥3 toxicity was 22.1% overall. On multivariable logistic regression, elective neck irradiation was associated with increased acute toxicity in the postoperative setting. The rate of overall late grade ≥3 toxicity was 16.7%, with patients treated postoperatively with hyperfractionation experiencing the highest rates. CONCLUSIONS: Doses of ≥66 Gy might be associated with improved outcomes in high-performance patients undergoing definitive re-IMRT. Postoperatively, doses of 50 to 66 Gy appear adequate after removal of gross disease. Hyperfractionation and elective neck irradiation were not associated with an obvious benefit and might increase toxicity.

Purpose Treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is evolving toward risk-based modification of therapeutic intensity, which requires patient-specific estimates of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Methods To develop and validate nomograms for OS and PFS, we used a derivation cohort of 493 patients with OPSCC with known p16 tumor status (surrogate of human papillomavirus) and cigarette smoking history (pack-years) randomly assigned to clinical trials using platinum-based chemoradiotherapy (NRG Oncology Radiation Therapy Oncology Group [RTOG] 0129 and 0522). Nomograms were created from Cox models and internally validated by use of bootstrap and cross-validation. Model discrimination was measured by calibration plots and the concordance index. Nomograms were externally validated in a cohort of 153 patients with OPSCC randomly assigned to a third trial, NRG Oncology RTOG 9003. Results Both models included age, Zubrod performance status, pack-years, education, p16 status, and T and N stage; the OS model also included anemia and age × pack-years interaction; and the PFS model also included marital status, weight loss, and p16 × Zubrod interaction. Predictions correlated well with observed 2-year and 5-year outcomes. The uncorrected concordance index was 0.76 (95% CI, 0.72 to 0.80) for OS and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.66 to 0.74) for PFS, and bias-corrected indices were similar. In the validation set, OS and PFS models were well calibrated, and OS and PFS were significantly different across tertiles of nomogram scores (log-rank P = .003;< .001). Conclusion The validated nomograms provided useful prediction of OS and PFS for patients with OPSCC treated with primary radiation-based therapy.

Purpose To determine the influence of adjuvant radiotherapy on survival in surgically-managed early stage intermediate-grade mucoepidermoid and acinic cell carcinoma of the parotid. Materials and methods The National Cancer Database was reviewed between 2004 and 2015 to identify patients with intermediate-grade, early T-stage, node-negative parotid carcinoma who underwent parotidectomy ± radiotherapy. Results There were 744 patients identified of which 81% had mucoepidermoid carcinoma and 19% had acinic cell carcinoma. Positive surgical margins were identified in 21% and adjuvant radiotherapy was administered in 38% of cases. Of the 159 patients with positive margins, 113 (71%) received adjuvant radiotherapy. Of the 585 patients with negative margins, 173 (30%) underwent adjuvant radiotherapy. In multivariable analysis, age (over 52 years: HR 5.19, 95%CI 2.33–11.57), insurance status (private insurance: HR 0.24 95%CI 0.13–0.43), and extent of parotidectomy (total parotidectomy: HR 2.02 95%CI 1.23–3.31) were significantly associated with overall survival, while adjuvant radiotherapy was not a significant predictive factor (HR 0.81, 95%CI 0.49–1.36). In patients with positive margin resections, however, adjuvant radiation was an independent predictor of improved survival when adjusted for age, insurance status, and extent of parotidectomy (HR 0.34, 95%CI 0.13–0.88). Conversely, in patients with negative margin resections, adjuvant radiation did not influence survival outcomes when adjusted for these covariates (HR 1.02, 95%CI 0.53–1.93). Conclusions and relevance In patients with early stage intermediate-grade parotid carcinoma, adjuvant radiotherapy significantly and independently improves survival in those with post-operative positive margins. Adjuvant therapy, however, does not appear to improve survival outcomes in those with negative margin resections.

IMPORTANCE: Brain metastasis (BM) rates are high in locally advanced non–small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC), approaching rates seen in small cell lung cancer, where prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is standard of care. Although PCI decreases the incidence of BM in LA-NSCLC, a survival advantage has not yet been shown. OBJECTIVE: To determine if PCI improves survival in LA-NSCLC. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 0214 was a randomized phase 3 clinical trial in stage III NSCLC stratified by stage (IIIA vs IIIB), histologic characteristics (nonsquamous vs squamous) and therapy (no surgery vs surgery). The study took place at 291 institutions in the United States, Canada, and internationally. Of 356 patients with stage III NSCLC entered onto this study, 16 were ineligible; therefore, 340 patients were randomized. INTERVENTION FOR CLINICAL TRIALS: Observation vs PCI. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). The secondary end points were disease-free survival (DFS) and incidence of BM. RESULTS: Of the 340 total participants, mean (SD) age was 61 years; 213 of the participants were men and 127 were women. The median follow-up time was 2.1 years for all patients, and 9.2 years for living patients. The OS for PCI was not significantly better than observation (hazard ratio [HR], 0.82; 95% CI, 0.63-1.06; P = .12; 5- and 10-year rates, 24.7% and 17.6% vs 26.0% and 13.3%, respectively), while the DFS (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.59-0.97; P = .03; 5- and 10-year rates, 19.0% and 12.6% vs 16.1% and 7.5% for PCI vs observation) and BM (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.24-0.77; P = .003; 5- and 10-year rates, 16.7% vs 28.3% for PCI vs observation) were significantly different. Patients in the PCI arm were 57% less likely to develop BM than those in the observation arm. Younger patients (

6065 Background: MEDI4736 (durvalumab), a PD-L1 inhibitor, has shown promising antitumor activity and safety in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). A phase II/III trial with lead-in component was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of concurrent and adjuvant MEDI4736 with radiation therapy (RT) for HNSCC patients with a contraindication to cisplatin. Safety data for 10 patients on the lead-in study are reported. Methods: Eligible patients had previously untreated locoregionally advanced unresected SCC of the larynx, hypopharynx, oropharynx (OPX), oral cavity, or unknown head/neck primary (AJCC 7th stage III-IVB). Contraindications to cisplatin included renal or hearing impairment, age ≥ 70 with moderate or severe comorbidity/vulnerability to cisplatin, or age< 70 with severe comorbidity/vulnerability, based on 6 validated indexes. Intravenous MEDI4736 1500 mg was delivered at weeks -2, 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, and 22 with RT (70 Gy in 35 daily fractions weeks 1-7). The primary endpoint was dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), defined as a high-grade adverse event (AE; NCI CTCAE version 4.0) definitely/probably related to MEDI4736 up to 4 weeks following completion of RT; 0-2 DLTs in 8 evaluable patients was considered acceptable. Results: Characteristics of the 10 enrolled patients were: 30% age ≥ 70, 90% male, 100% Caucasian, 40% ECOG performance status 0, 60% modified Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 1, 60% >10 pack-years, 20% larynx, 60% p16+ OPX, 50% T3-4 and 80% N2-3 disease. All 10 patients had ≥ 2 contraindications to cisplatin. All 10 patients completed RT and were evaluable. 8 of 10 patients received all 7 doses of MEDI4736 and 1 patient is still on MEDI4736 after 6 doses. 1 patient received 2 doses then discontinued due to AE (diarrhea possibly related to MEDI4736). No DLTs were observed. No grade 4-5 AEs were observed. Grade ≥ 3 AEs possibly related to MEDI4736 were: diarrhea (n=1), nausea (1), and vomiting (1). No grade ≥ 3 AEs were rated as definitely or probably related to MEDI4736. Conclusions: MEDI4736 is safe and feasible to administer concurrently with RT for patients with HNSCC with a contraindication to cisplatin. Clinical trial information: NCT03258554.

SummaryBackgroundPhotodynamic therapy with aminolevulinic acid (ALA PDT) for oral leukoplakia has shown promising effects in regression of oral leukoplakia. Although ALA has been extensively studied and is an ideal photosensitizer, the optimal light dose for treatment of oral leukoplakia has not been determined. We conducted a phase I study to determine MTD and DLT of PDT in patients treated with ALA for leukoplakia.MethodsPatients with histologically confirmed oral leukoplakia received a single treatment of ALA PDT in cohorts with escalating doses of light (585nm). Clinical, histologic, and biologic markers were assessed.ResultsAnalysis of 11 participants is reported. No significant toxicity from ALA PDT was observed in patients who received ALA with a light dose of up to 4J/cm2. One participant experienced transient grade 3 transaminase elevation due to ALA. One participant had a partial clinical response 3months after treatment. Biologic mucosal risk markers showed no significant associations. Determination of MTD could not be accomplished within a feasible timeframe for completion of the study.ConclusionsALA PDT could be safely administered with a light dose up to 4J/cm2 and demonstrated activity. Larger studies are needed to fully elucidate the MTD and efficacy of ALA-PDT.

To examine the efficacy and toxicity of continuous-course, conformal reirradiation with weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin for the treatment of locally recurrent, nonmetastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) in a previously irradiated field.Patients treated with continuous course-reirradiation with concurrent carboplatin and paclitaxel at the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Clement J. Zablocki VA from 2001 through 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients included in the analysis had prior radiation at the site of recurrence of at least 45 Gy. The analysis included patients who received either intensity-modulated radiotherapy (RT) or three-dimensional conformal RT techniques. All patients received weekly concurrent carboplatin (AUC2) and paclitaxel (30-50 mg/m(2)).Thirty-eight patients with nonmetastatic SCCHN met the entry criteria for analysis. The primary sites at initial diagnosis were oropharyngeal or laryngeal in most patients (66%). Median reirradiation dose was 60 Gy (range, 54-70 Gy). Acute toxicity included Grade 2 neutropenia (5%), Grade 3 neutropenia (15%), and Grade 1/2 thrombocytopenia (8%). No deaths occurred from hematologic toxicity. Chemotherapy doses held (50%) was more prevalent than radiation treatment break (8%). Sixty-eight percent of patients required a gastrostomy tube in follow-up. Significant late toxicity was experienced in 6 patients (16%): 1 tracheoesophageal fistula, 1 pharyngocutaneous fistula, 3 with osteoradionecrosis, and 1 patient with a lingual artery bleed. Patients treated with three-dimensional conformal RT had more frequent significant late toxicites than patients treated with intensity-modulated RT (44% and 7% respectively, p0.05). The median time to progression was 7 months and progression-free rates at 1, 2, and 5 years was 44%, 34%, and 29% respectively. The median overall survival was 16 months. Overall survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 54%, 31%, and 20% respectively.Continuous-course, conformal reirradiation with weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin has an acceptable toxicity profile and offers a potentially curative option in a subset of patients with few other options.

Purpose To evaluate the rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) and the toxicity of two neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (chemoRT) regimens for Stage T3-T4 rectal cancer in a randomized Phase II study. Methods and Materials Patients with Stage T3 or T4 rectal cancer of 2 /d Mondays through Friday) and irinotecan (50 mg/m 2 weekly in four doses) (Arm 1) or concurrent capecitabine (1,650 mg/m 2 /d Monday through Friday) and oxaliplatin (50 mg/m 2 weekly in five doses) (Arm 2). Surgery was performed 4–8 weeks after chemoRT, and adjuvant chemotherapy 4–6 weeks after surgery. The primary endpoint was the pCR rate, requiring 48 evaluable patients per arm. Results A total of 146 patients were enrolled. The protocol chemotherapy was modified because of excessive gastrointestinal toxicity after treatment of 35 patients; 96 were assessed for the primary endpoint—the final regimen described above. The patient characteristics were similar for both arms. After chemoRT, the rate of tumor downstaging was 52% and 60% and the rate of nodal downstaging (excluding N0 patients) was 46% and 40%, for Arms 1 and 2, respectively. The pCR rate for Arm 1 was 10% and for Arm 2 was 21%. For Arm 1 and 2, the preoperative chemoRT rate of Grade 3-4 hematologic toxicity was 9% and 4% and the rate of Grade 3-4 nonhematologic toxicity was 26% and 27%, respectively. Conclusions Preoperative chemoRT with capecitabine plus oxaliplatin for distal rectal cancer has significant clinical activity (10 of 48 pCRs) and acceptable toxicity. This regimen is currently being evaluated in a Phase III randomized trial (National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project R04).