Repurcussions of Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancers

ABSTRACT

Cancer is a potentially lethal disorder with abnormal cell growth and metastasis, warranting multimodal treatment owing to its diversity and complexity. Head and neck cancers are physically and emotionally devastating disease, with profound impact on the most fundamental activities of the subjects’ daily life such as the ability to speak, breathe, eat, drink, and socialize. The side-effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy get superimposed on the existing problems and cause new problems resulting in significant morbidity and suffering. Methods: This Prospective Observational study was conducted at the Department of ENT, Southern Railway Headquarters Hospital, Chennai, India. All subjects were evaluated for toxicities using RTOG/EORTC toxicity criteria and Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC). Results: Hypopharynx was the most common site of malignancy observed (31.6 %). Pain (90%) and appetite loss (84.2%) secondary to Mucositis and Xerostomia were the most predominant, serious and lasting adverse effects noted. Subjects also experienced markedly altered smell (63%) and taste (78%). Skin changes and alopecia was observed in all the subjects. Overall treatment duration was prolonged in 78.9% owing to severe toxicities, which necessitated withholding of last few cycles of chemotherapy. Conclusion: Subjects receiving concurrent Chemo-Radiotherapy experience a substantial number of treatment related adverse events, which had considerable effect on their Quality of life.