Voice-Saving Care for Patients with Larynx Cancer

A new study has found that simultaneous treatment with chemotherapy and radiation preserves the voice of patients with advanced larynx cancer without compromising survival rates. The findings were reported in the November 27, 2003, issue of The New England Journal of Medicine.

The study, which involved 547 patients, showed that the combination of chemotherapy and radiation at the same time instead of sequentially is more effective in preserving the voice box. In the study, 88% of patients receiving the simultaneous treatment still had their voice box after two years, compared to 75% of those receiving sequential treatment, and 70% of those receiving radiation alone. For patients who have other significant medical problems or little support at home, the researchers recommend radiation alone.

"Chemotherapy and radiation together are recommended for advanced laryngeal cancer patients who are otherwise in good health and want to preserve their voice,” said Arlene Forastiere, M.D., professor of oncology and otolaryngology at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center (Baltimore, MD, USA) and chair of the study. Experience with combined treatment, she explained, has reduced the need for complete removal of the larynx from about 100% to about 15%.




Related Links:
Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center