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Combination therapy for anaplastic giant cell thyroid carcinoma
M Schlumberger1, C Parmentier, M J Delisle
1Institut Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France.
Cancer
|February 1, 1991
Summary
This study investigated a chemotherapy and radiation regimen for anaplastic giant cell carcinoma of the thyroid. While effective for local tumor control in some patients, high toxicity and limited distant metastasis response remain challenges.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Thyroid Cancer Research
- Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy
Background:
- Anaplastic giant cell carcinoma of the thyroid is an aggressive malignancy.
- Limited effective treatment options exist for this rare cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of a combined chemotherapy and external beam radiation therapy regimen.
- To assess survival rates and local tumor control in patients with anaplastic giant cell carcinoma of the thyroid.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 20 patients treated with a combination regimen.
- Chemotherapy varied by age: doxorubicin/cisplatin for <65 years, mitoxantrone for ≥65 years.
- External beam radiation therapy delivered 17.5 Gy in 7 fractions to the neck and mediastinum.
Main Results:
- Survival exceeding 20 months in 3 patients.
- Complete neck tumor response in 5 patients, 4 with prior surgery.
- No response in distant metastases; 14 deaths caused by distant disease.
- High toxicity observed, limiting treatment.
Conclusions:
- The combined modality treatment shows potential for local control and survival in select anaplastic giant cell carcinoma of the thyroid patients.
- Gross tumor resection is recommended if feasible without delaying protocol initiation.
- High toxicity and lack of response in distant metastases necessitate further research for improved therapeutic strategies.