Alternatives to radiotherapy in the management of seminoma

In a period from January 1978 to January 1989, 114 patients with seminoma have been managed, primarily in studies aimed at examining alternatives to radiotherapy. In a pilot study of single agent platinum in 27 previously untreated patients with metastatic seminoma, 82% remain progression-free and 89% alive and disease-free at 5 years compared with 81% progression-free and 88% alive and disease-free in a selected group of 16 previously untreated patients who received platinum-based combination treatment. Results from a pilot study of surveillance in 26 patients with stage 1 seminoma showed that 27% developed evidence of further disease (5 relapses, 2 second tumours) by 3 years, with all relapse patients salvaged by subsequent treatment. Because of the slow pace of relapse compared with malignant teratoma, with relapses occurring after 2 years, a pilot study was initiated to evaluate the effect of 2 courses of adjuvant carboplatin. The results to date in 25 patients suggest that with the use of modern antiemetics this regimen is as well tolerated as prophylactic radiotherapy. With a median follow-up of 16 months there has been 1 relapse subsequently salvaged by combination chemotherapy. A radomised trial is now justified to assess the quality of life and late toxicity of this approach compared with prophylactic radiotherapy.