Three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for loco-regionally recurrent esophageal cancer after initial radiotherapy

Objective To evaluate the feasibility, therapeutic effects and normal tissue complications of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) for loco-regionally recurrent esophageal cancer after initial radiotherapy. Methods Between March 2001 and May 2007, 42 patients with loco-reigonal recurrent esophageal cancer after initial radiotherapy were treated with 3DCRT, including 27 male and 15 female with a median age of 67.5 years. Radiotherapy was delivered at 1.8 -2.0 Gy per fraction, 5 fractions per week, with a median total dose of 54 Gy. Treatment outcomes and normal tissue complications were assessed with WHO and RTOG/EORTC criteria. Results By December 31,2008, the follow-up rate was 100%. Twenty patients had follow-up time of 1 year and the remaining 22 had 2 years. The clinical symptom relief rate was 60%, and the response rate was 90.5% with a complete remission rate of 17% and partial remission rate of 74%. The overall 1- and 2-year survival (OS) rates were 60% and 24%. Grade 2 and grade 3 acute radiation esophagitis developed in 31% and 5% of the patients, respectively. Grade 2 and grade 3 acute radiation pneumonitis developed in 19% and 2% , respectively. Grade 2 and grade 3 acute radiation hematology toxicities developed in 5% and 2%, respectively. Conclusions For patients with loco-regional recurrences of esophageal cancer after initial radiotherapy, 3DCRT is feasible, with a good clinical symptom relief rate and immediate tumor response. However,the complication rate was high and the clinical indications should be strictly controlled. Key words: Esophageal neoplasms/radiotherapy;  Radiotherapy, three-dimensional conformal;  Prognosis