Outcome of chemoradiotherapy using intensity-modulated radiation therapy for cervical esophageal cancer: a single institute experience

Background The role of intensity-modulated radiation therapy in the treatment of cervical esophageal cancer remains unclear. The outcome of concurrent chemoradiotherapy for cervical esophageal squamous cell carcinoma using intensity-modulated radiation therapy was retrospectively evaluated. Methods Between 2004 and 2017, 36 patients with cervical esophageal cancer treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy were included. Among these patients, one had stage II disease, three stage III, 19 stage IVA, and 13 stage IVB. All patients received radiotherapy at a dose of 60 Gy and concurrent platinum-based doublet chemotherapy. Results The median follow-up period for surviving patients was 36 months. Three-year locoregional control, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 54, 40, and 46%, respectively. Disease progression was noted in 20 out of 36 patients (56%). Grade 3 late toxicities were observed in four patients (three esophageal stenoses and one carotid artery stenosis). There were no grade 4–5 toxicities. Univariate analysis identified the duration of radiotherapy as a prognostic factor for overall survival. Conclusions Chemoradiotherapy using intensity-modulated radiation therapy for locally advanced cervical esophageal carcinoma achieved satisfactory locoregional control and survival with acceptable toxicities.