Purpose: To assess the efficacy and toxicity of definitive radiotherapy (RT) plus regional hyperthermia (HT) in treating superior sulcus tumors (SSTs), and to identify predictors of positive outcomes.
Methods and materials: Twenty-four patients with SSTs treated with definitive RT plus regional HT were retrospectively analyzed. The median total dose of RT was 70 Gy. All patients were treated with an 8-MHz RF-capacitive heating device. Twelve of 24 (50%) patients also underwent chemotherapy. Those with either subcutaneous fat measuring 2.5 cm or greater, or any other serious complications did not undergo this therapy.
Results: Overall survival, local control, and distant metastasis-free survival rates at 3 years were 47%, 55%, and 71%, respectively. Chemotherapy and younger age (<65 years) were significant predictors of the overall survival rate. Clinical stage (IIB) was a statistically significant prognostic indicator for local control survival rate. Toxicities were mild, with Grade 3 dermatitis seen in one patient.
Conclusions: Definitive RT plus regional HT with chemotherapy may be a promising treatment for SSTs. The results justify further evaluation with detailed treatment protocols in a large number of patients.
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