OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine the efficacy and feasibility of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) using cisplatin and etoposide in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer.

METHODS

Previously untreated patients with histologically confirmed stage 1B-2B cervical cancer were treated with three courses of NACT (60 mg/m2 cisplatin on days 1 and 2 plus 100 mg/m2 etoposide on day 1) every 10 days. NACT was followed within 2-3 weeks by radical hysterectomy with lymph node dissection.

RESULTS

From 1999 to 2004, 112 patients were enrolled and 99 patients were evaluable. All eligible patients had radical surgery after NACT. Hematologic toxicity was the most common side effect, and the level of toxicity was acceptable. The overall pathologic response rate was 69.7% (69/99). The median follow-up period was 49 months, and the 5-year overall and progression-free survival rates were 88.1% and 60.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

NACT with cisplatin and etoposide for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer is promising and has an acceptable toxicity profile. The regimen timing (every 10 days) did not delay the optimal time for radical treatment.