ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the safety and feasibility of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy combined with tegafur in treating locally recurrent rectal cancer. Methods A total of 32 patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer were treated with chemoradiotherapy ( CRT) . Radiotherapy was delivered to a total of 45 Gy in 25 fractions followed by a boost of 18 Gy in 10 fractions using three dimensional radiotherapy planning. Tegafur was given orally[80 mg·(m2)-1·d-1] on days 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, 29-33, 36-40, and 43-47 during radiotherapy. Results Most of the adverse effects were mild. Grade 3-4 toxic effects occurred in 12. 5% of patients. Thirty-one patients completed full course of CRT, while one patient discontinued chemotherapy due to Grade 4 thrombocytopenia. There were 3 cases (9. 4%) with complete response, 21 cases (65. 6%) with partial response, and the overall response rate was 75. 0%. Overall pain response (complete and partial pain relief) was achieved in 96. 9% of patients. The 1- and 2-year overall survival rate was 71. 0% and 56. 5%, respectively. Conclusion 3D-CRT combined with tegafur for locally recurrent rectal cancer is feasible with high patient compliance and tolerable toxicities.