Evaluation of the Combination of Docetaxel/Carboplatin in Patients with Metastatic or Recurrent Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck (SCCHN): A Southwest Oncology Group Phase II Study

Abstract

Carboplatin/docetaxel chemotherapy was evaluated in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Eligibility included patients with recurrent, persistent, or metastatic SCCHN with Zubrod performance status 0–2. Docetaxel 65 mg/m² and carboplatin (AUC of 6) were given IV in a 21-day cycle to 68 patients. Response probability was 25 percent (95%CI: 15–38). The major toxicity observed was neutropenia, with 36 patients (61 percent) experiencing Grade 3 or worse. Median progression-free survival was 3.8 months (95%CI, 3.1–4.8) Median overall survival was 7.4 months (95%CI, 6.2–8.9). The results of this study suggest this regimen is active for outpatient treatment of recurrent SCCHN patients with good performance status.

Keywords:

• Head and neck cancer
• Chemotherapy
• Taxane
• Docetaxel
• Carboplatin