In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy (CRT) with capecitabine (Xeloda) before surgery in elderly patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Researchers suggested that this treatment is safe and well tolerated in the elderly.
Some background
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. This cancer is commonly diagnosed in elderly patients. These patients, because of their age and possible associated conditions, are also at a higher risk of experiencing side effects related to the treatment. Prior studies confirmed the effectiveness of CRT followed by rectal surgery. However, most of these studies do not include elderly patients.
If chemotherapy and radiation treatment before surgery are safe and effective in elderly patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer remains under investigation.
Methods & findings
This study included 42 patients of 70 years or more with rectal cancer. They were treated with CRT followed by surgery. Treatment response, surgery associated complications, disease-free survival (DFS; time from treatment to the tumor growing or spreading) and overall survival (OS; time from treatment to death by any cause) were measured.
Overall, 37 patients (88%) completed CRT. Skin inflammation due to radiation was reported in 62% of the patients. Tiredness was reported in 57% and diarrhea in 43% of patients. 40 patients (95%) underwent surgery.
The rate of complications after surgery was 30%. The 30-day mortality rate was 0%. No signs of cancer were seen in 7.5% of the patients. 2-year DFS was 58.5% and 2-year OS was 81%. 5-year DFS was 40.7% and 5-year OS was 58.2%.
The bottom line
The study determined that CRT with capecitabine before surgery is effective and with manageable side effects in elderly patients with rectal cancer.
The fine print
This study included a limited number of participants. Larger studies are needed for more conclusive results.
Published By :
Clinical Colorectal Cancer
Date :
Sep 01, 2018
