Definitive weekly hypofractionated radiotherapy in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: response rates and outcomes in elderly patients unfit for surgery.

INTRODUCTION

The optimal definitive radiotherapy (RT) scheme in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) remains controversial, especially in elderly patients.

METHODS

Data of elderly patients with cSCC lesion(s) treated with weekly hypofractionated RT (8 Gy per week per 7-8 weeks) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (median age 89 years) with 23 cSCC lesions have been identified including nine males (50%) and nine females (50%). The most common tumor localization was the head and neck region (n = 21; 91.3%), and the majority of lesions (n = 15; 65.2%) was stage ≥ III. At diagnosis, pain and bleeding were ascribed in 13 (56.5%) and eight (34.8%) cSCC, respectively. Compliance with weekly hypofractionated RT was excellent. The overall response rate at 12 weeks after treatment was 95.7%. Bleeding and pain relief were achieved in all cases. Severe toxicity was not recorded. The 1-year overall survival was 66.0%. The 1-year progression-free survival was 58.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

Weekly hypofractionated RT provides a safe, efficient, and cost-effective treatment in elderly cSCC patients with minimal side effects.