Results of combined modality therapy for patients with anal cancer (E7283). An Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group study.
BACKGROUND
This prospective study assessed combined modality therapy of patients with International Union Against Cancer classification T1-4 N0 M0 anal cancer.


METHODS
Protocol therapy consisted of a dose of 4000 cGy to the pelvis, anus, and perineum, followed by a 1000-1300 cGy boost. Infusions of 5-fluorouracil and mitomycin-C were administered when radiation therapy began. A second infusion of 5-fluorouracil was administered 28 days later. Biopsy was performed 6-8 weeks after completion of treatment. Positive biopsy findings resulted in abdominal-perineal resection.


RESULTS
Survival at 7 years for 50 eligible patients was 58%. White patients and those with favorable performance status had significantly better survival. Of the 46 patients evaluable for response, 34 had a complete response, 11 had a partial response, and 1 had no response. Seven-year survival for partial responders was 53%. Freedom from locoregional progression was 80% at 7 years.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatment with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy is effective for patients with anal cancer. The investigation of methods of improving therapy is warranted.
Martenson
J A
JA
Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Lipsitz
S R
SR
Lefkopoulou
M
M
Engstrom
P F
PF
Dayal
Y Y
YY
Cobau
C D
CD
Oken
M M
MM
Haller
D G
DG
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001005:Anus Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D005472:Fluorouracil / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016685:Mitomycin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015996:Survival Rate
D016685:Mitomycin; D005472:Fluorouracil