Concurrent split course hyperfractionated radiotherapy (Hfx RT) with biweekly cisplatin (DDP) and paclitaxel (P) in patients with recurrent, previously irradiated squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN): The MUSC experience

5578 Background: Locally recurrent disease (RD) contributes to the majority of SCCHN-related deaths. In addition, second primary tumors (SPT) develop in approximately 30% of patients (pts) who were cured of their primary malignancy. For pts with disease (RD or SPT) in a previously irradiated region, therapeutic options are limited. Approaches utilizing reirradiation with concurrent chemotherapy (CT) have been investigated, with promising initial results. We retrospectively report the clinical outcome & toxicity of such a regimen. Methods: A cohort of pts with locally recurrent or second primary SCCHN within previous radiation portals were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Pts received HFx RT (1.5 Gy/Fx BID × 5 every 2 wks × 4), in combination with DDP 15 mg/m2 IV QD × 5 and P 20 mg/m2 IV QD × 5 q 2 wks × 4. Filgrastim was given on days 6–13 of each 2 wk cycle. Results: Nineteen pts were treated (median age 61; 84% with RD at median of 22 mos, 16% SPT; primary site: oropharynx-32%, larynx-32%, oral cavity 21%). Two pts had treatment discontinued early (due to hemoptysis & declining performance status, respectively). Seventeen pts were evaluable at a median f/u of 13 mos. Acute skin & mucous membrane toxicity (Grade ≥ 2) was seen in 11% and 5% of pt’s, respectively, and 32% of pts developed skin fibrosis as a late radiation toxicity. Most pts (82%) received all 4 scheduled cycles of CT. Grade ≥ 3 hematologic toxicity occurred in 29% of pts (anemia 24%, neutropenia 24%, & thrombocytopenia 12%). Infection was the primary non-hematologic toxicity, with Grade ≥ 3 infection in 29% (4 pneumonia, 1 vascular catheter). There was 1 treatment-related death (hypotension with CVA). Of the 16 pts who completed treatment, 4 had initial surgery, and thus had no measurable disease upon commencing CRT. Objective responses to CRT were noted in all of the remaining 12 pts and 50% achieved a CR. One-year OS rate was 65%, with median survival not yet reached. Conclusions: RD and SPT pts who are not surgical candidates have limited treatment options. Aggressive reirradiation with biweekly CT produces excellent response rates, with acceptable local and systemic toxicities. No significant financial relationships to disclose.