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Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers in the elderly
A Lusinchi1, J Bourhis, P Wibault
1Département de Radiothérapie, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.
Summary
This study on upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma in elderly patients found that radiotherapy offered good tolerance and local control, with a 33% five-year survival rate. Age and general status did not significantly impact outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Upper aerodigestive tract carcinomas are prevalent in patients over 70.
- Treatment decisions in this age group are often complicated by comorbidities and anesthesia contraindications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of radiotherapy for upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma in patients over 70 years old.
- To assess factors influencing oncologic outcomes in this specific patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 331 patients aged over 70 treated between 1978 and 1983.
- Patients received exclusive irradiation (curative or palliative intent) or radiosurgical combination.
- Outcomes assessed included local control and five-year survival.
Main Results:
- Larynx, oropharynx, and oral cavity were the most frequent primary sites.
- Radiotherapy demonstrated good immediate and long-term tolerance.
- Local control rates were 71% for curative intent and 19% for palliative irradiation.
- Five-year survival for the entire cohort was 33%.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy is a viable treatment option for elderly patients with upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma, offering good tolerance and local control.
- Age and general status were not significant predictors of oncologic outcomes.
- Further research may explore optimizing palliative irradiation strategies.