Concurrent cisplatin-vindesine and hyperfractionated thoracic radiotherapy in locally advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer.

PURPOSE

Local failure is a major problem in locally advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer. The main objective of this Phase II trial was to test the feasibility of a combined concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy approach in an attempt to improve local control.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

From December 1989 to December 1992, 34 patients were included. The treatment schedule consisted of hyperfractionated radiotherapy (60 Gy in 48 fractions and 6 weeks with two daily sessions of 1.25 Gy), cisplatin (6 mg/m2 every day of radiotherapy), and vindesine (2.5 mg/m2 once weekly). After a 3-week rest period, two full cycles of cisplatin (120 mg/m2 on weeks 10 and 14) and vindesine (2.5 mg/m2 on weeks 11, 12, and 13) were given. Treatment evaluation with thoracic computed scan, bronchoscopy, and bronchial biopsies was performed 3 months after completion of radiation therapy. Failure rates were estimated using a competing risk approach.

RESULTS

The complete response rate was 50%. Local failure rates at 1 and 3 years were 53 and 56%, respectively. Distant metastases rates at 1 and 3 years were 26.5 and 29%. Overall survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were respectively 53, 33, and 12%. Severe esophagitis was observed in three patients (9%). Lethal toxicity was observed in two patients.

CONCLUSION

This Phase II trial confirms the feasibility of this type of approach with specific dose reduction and suggests that it may improve local control compared to conventional approaches.