Concurrent carboplatin with pelvic radiation therapy in the primary treatment of cervix cancer

Objectives. The objectives were to determine the acute toxicities of concurrent carboplatin and radiation therapy in the primary treatment of cervix cancer and to ascertain the antitumor activity of this regimen. Methods. Patients with stage IB-1 to IVA untreated primary cervix cancers were eligible for enrollment into this study. Carboplatin was administered on a weekly basis with external radiation therapy (ERT). Low-dose brachytherapy was given after completion of ERT. Acute toxicities and response to treatment were assessed. Results. Thirty-one evaluable patients were enrolled. The majority of patients had early stage disease. Carboplatin was successfully administered in 175 out of 186 (94%) planned treatments. All patients completed the prescribed course of radiation therapy. The mean treatment time was 50 days (36-73). There were no treatment delays for neutropenia or gastrointestinal toxicity. No patient was hospitalized for treatment related toxicities. Gastrointestinal toxicity equivalent to grade 3 or 4 was not reported. The objective tumor response based on physical exam findings and computed tomography measurements was 90%. Conclusion. Patients with cervix cancer can be treated on schedule with concurrent carboplatin and pelvic radiation therapy. This regimen is well tolerated and produces excellent response rates.