The current status of multimodality treatment for unresectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

A multimodality approach plays a key role in the treatment of patients with unresectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Currently, definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) plus cisplatin with radiotherapy is the standard treatment in this population. dCRT regimens using 5-FU plus leucovorin plus oxaliplatin (FOLFOX), and carboplatin plus paclitaxel have been investigated in prospective clinical trials. Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody has been evaluated in combination with dCRT; however, this combination has not revealed any additive benefits. Induction chemotherapy using docetaxel plus 5-FU plus cisplatin has also been under investigation. Although long-term survival and cure have been observed in some patients by dCRT, most patients experience local failure or distant metastasis and eventually die from the disease. Salvage surgery is an important option if the residual or recurrent tumors after dCRT can be resectable, but is associated with high postoperative morbidity and mortality. Introduction of radiotherapy using a new technique with dose escalation is expected to improve efficacy without increasing radiation-related toxicities. Immunotherapy in combination with radiotherapy has also gathered attention. For the establishment of new and effective treatments in the field of unresectable locally advanced ESCC, a collaboration between clinical researchers and basic researchers is warranted.