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Split-Course Radiotherapy Relieves Symptoms of Advanced NSCLC, Without Affecting Survival AURORA, Colo -- February 17, 2010 -- Research published in the February edition of the Journal of Thoracic Oncology sought to assess the overall efficacy of split-course palliative chest radiotherapy (RT) for symptom relief in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Additionally, researchers investigated the impact the regimen’s 2-week break has on survival outcomes. The primary challenge in treating patients with advanced NSCLC is that most present with poor performance status and the benefit of treatment may be doubtful because of poor tolerance to any form of therapy. Palliative chest RT for lung malignancies has shown to be effective in relieving serious chest symptoms from tumour bleeding or mass effect on major airways, vessels and nerves. However, there is a lack of consensus for an optimal palliative RT regimen. Researchers reviewed the medical records of 140 patients in a retrospective analysis. The team evaluated symptom relief and toxicity during and after completion of RT treatment from clinician notes and patient-reported symptom inventory forms. Then, the researchers examined the impact of the treatment regimen on survival rates. Symptomatic relief was observed in all types of chest symptoms with an extent ranging from 52% to 84%. Long-lasting symptom relief was experienced in 58% of patients. Therapy was well-tolerated, and toxicity was mild and transient, with grade 1 or 2 treatment-related oesophagitis completely resolved during the 2-week break. Furthermore, cancer survival was not adversely affected by a break in treatment. “Balancing symptomatic relief with the side effects of radiotherapy remains a critical element of patient treatment,” explained lead investigator, Su K. Metcalfe, MD, James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York. “Our selection design represents a viable option for patients who cannot tolerate continuous radiation treatment courses.” SOURCE: International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer E-mail this page to a friend or colleague! To print, use this version