Induction chemotherapy, surgery and concomitant chemoradiotherapy for carcinoma of the esophagus

In an effort to combine the 3 major cancer treatment modalities against esophageal cancer, we designed a study building on our institution’s interest in 5-Fluorouracil modulation and concomitant chemoradiotherapy. From 1989 through 1992, we entered 41 patients with carcinoma of the esophagus into a study using induction chemotherapy, surgical resection, and concomitant chemoradiotherapy. Patients had to have no known distant metastases, a calculated creatinine clearance of ≥ 50 ml/hr, and a good performance status (Cancer and Leukemia Group B 0,1, or 2). Patients with adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma were eligible. Written informed consent was required.