Radiotherapy for metastatic carcinomas of the kidney or melanomas: an analysis using palliative end points.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To assess the rate and duration of response to palliative radiotherapy (RT) in patients with metastatic melanoma or renal cell carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

From 1992 to 1995, 90 patients were entered into a nonrandomized study. Goals of palliative RT were prospectively defined and subjective response was documented at the end of RT, after 2-6 weeks, and every 3 months thereafter. Most patients were treated with 5 x 4 Gy or 10 x 3 Gy.

RESULTS:

Relief of pain from bone lesions was observed in 26 of 40 cases, with a duration of response of 2.4 months, corresponding to 57% of the remaining lifetime. A total of 55% of patients with persistent neurologic dysfunction despite corticosteroids improved, for a duration of 2.5 months (86% of the further lifespan). Freedom from symptoms in patients treated for impending neurological complications from metastases to the brain, spine, or nerve plexus was documented for 86-100% of their lifetime.

CONCLUSIONS:

Despite the methodological flaws discussed, the efficacy of a short course of palliative RT for so-called radioresistant tumors is demonstrated.

• Authors: P U Huguenin, S Kieser, C Glanzmann, R Capaul, U M Lütolf
• Journal: International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics (Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys) Vol. 41 Issue 2 Pg. 401-5 (May 01 1998) ISSN: 0360-3016 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9607358 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Brain Neoplasms (radiotherapy, secondary)
• Carcinoma, Renal Cell (radiotherapy)
• Humans
• Kidney Neoplasms (radiotherapy)
• Melanoma (radiotherapy)
• Middle Aged
• Palliative Care
• Prospective Studies
• Spinal Neoplasms (radiotherapy, secondary)