Feasibility Study of S-1 for Chemotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Tsukuda M, Kida A, Fujii M, Kono N, Yoshihara T, Hasegawa Y, Sugita M
Primary Institution: Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the feasible adjuvant therapy administration schedule of S-1 for locoregionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Conclusion
The 2-week administration followed by a 1-week rest of S-1 is more feasible and tolerable compared to the 4-week administration followed by a 2-week rest.
Supporting Evidence
- 40% of patients in arm A followed the planned schedule compared to 29% in arm B.
- The cumulative rate of total administration days was 69.4% in arm A and 54.4% in arm B.
- Adverse events were recorded in 82.0% of arm A and 94.1% of arm B patients.
- Diarrhoea and skin toxicities were significantly higher in arm B.
Takeaway
This study tested two ways to give a cancer medicine called S-1 to patients with head and neck cancer, and found that one way was easier for patients to handle.
Methodology
Patients were randomly assigned to two different schedules of S-1 administration and monitored for feasibility and adverse events.
Limitations
The study had a relatively short follow-up period and did not assess long-term outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Patients aged 20-74 with stage III or IV SCCHN, primarily male (approximately 88% in arm A and 94.1% in arm B).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.054
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 40.1–69.7%
Statistical Significance
p=0.054
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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