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Effects of intralesional 32-P chromic phosphate in refractory patients with head and neck tumours
Kyrus A Alimi1, Nosrat Firusian, Wolfram Dempke
1Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Elisabeth Hospital, Roentgenstrasse 10, D-45661 Recklinghausen, Germany.
Background:
The clinical outcome of refractory head and neck (H&N) cancer patients remains poor despite novel treatment strategies. In this pilot study the efficacy of intratumoral injection of 32-P chromic phosphate in 14 patiehts with refractory H&N carcinomas was investigated in terms of response rates and overall survival.
Patients And Methods:
Fourteen patients (median age: 59 years) with either cytostatic drug-resistant tumours or tumours known to be primarily chemotherapy-resistant were entered into the study. After sonographic determination of the tumour volume, 32-P chromic phosphate (74-444 MBq) was injected into the central part of the tumour under sonographic guidance. Follow-up investigations included serial scintigraphy, sonographic examinations and hematological studies.
Results:
Injection of 32-P chromic phosphate into refractory H&N tumours resulted in remarkable regression. The median survival of all patients was 7.8 months (range: 4-16). Eight patients exhibited a partial response, while 6 patients did not respond to the treatment. In 3 patients thrombocytopenia (grade I/II) was observed, but no other significant side-effects were apparent. Significant pathological and anatomical changes within the tumour tissue were demonstrated. In all cases examined, formation of a cyst within the area of central activity, surrounded by a centrifugal necrotic ring and a marginal fibrotic structure, was found.
Conclusion:
A lack of persistent systematic or local side-effects, as well as noteworthy efficacy, are properties of this novel regional treatment modality with 32-P chromic phosphate. This modality deserves consideration for further clinical trials.
Insights
Intratumoral injection of 32-P chromic phosphate shows promise for refractory head and neck cancers, offering tumor regression with minimal side effects. Further clinical trials are warranted for this novel regional therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
- Head and Neck Cancer Research
Background:
- Refractory head and neck (H&N) cancer patients have poor clinical outcomes.
- Novel treatment strategies are needed for these challenging cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of intratumoral 32-P chromic phosphate injection.
- To evaluate response rates and overall survival in refractory H&N carcinoma patients.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving 14 patients with drug-resistant H&N tumors.
- Intratumoral injection of 32-P chromic phosphate (74-444 MBq) under sonographic guidance.
- Follow-up included scintigraphy, sonography, and hematological studies.
Main Results:
- Remarkable tumor regression observed after 32-P chromic phosphate injection.
- Median survival was 7.8 months; 8 patients showed partial response.
- Minimal side effects, primarily grade I/II thrombocytopenia, were noted.
Conclusions:
- 32-P chromic phosphate is a novel regional treatment with noteworthy efficacy and a favorable side-effect profile.
- This modality warrants further clinical investigation for refractory H&N cancers.
