title: Neoadjuvant therapy for oesophagogastric cancer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The prognosis after surgery for oesophagogastric cancer remains poor.
  
  
  METHODS
  This review clarifies current indications for neoadjuvant therapy for oesophageal and gastric cancer. A systematic literature research and evaluation of data from international cancer meetings were carried out.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Recently published results of large randomized phase III trials underscore the potential value of neoadjuvant treatment for oesophagogastric cancer. However, it remains uncertain which subgroups of patients should routinely undergo preoperative therapy. Metabolic response evaluation during neoadjuvant treatment is a promising tool for the selection of responding patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a valid option for locally advanced oesophageal and gastric cancer. In the future, more effective and better tolerated treatment strategies, tailored to the specific tumour characteristics of each individual, should be possible.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, D-81675 Munich, Germany. f.lordick@lrz.tu-muenchen.de
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Lordick
authors.forename: H J
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: Stein
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Peschel
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Siewert
mesh_terms: D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant / Q000379:methods; D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D020360:Neoadjuvant Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D018714:Radiotherapy, Adjuvant / Q000379:methods; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D013274:Stomach Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*