Induction Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Pharyngolaryngeal Cancers with Stridor : Is It Feasible and Safe?

Abstract EN

Background.

The standard initial management of patients with locally advanced pharyngolaryngeal presenting with stridor is tracheostomy.

Tracheostomy has been shown to negatively impact cancer-related outcomes.

Methods.

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 9 patients, who underwent induction chemotherapy with the aim of prevention of tracheostomy.

Presenting features, time to resolution of stridor, and further management are reported.

Results.

Eight out of 9 patient received chemotherapy within 12 hours of presentation with stridor.

There were 4 patients each with primary hypopharynx and larynx.

The stage was IVA in 6 patients and IVB in 2 patients.

In all patients receiving immediate chemotherapy, clinical stridor resolved within 48 hours.

The radiological response rate was 62.5%.

The median reduction in size of tumor was 37%.

Conclusion.

Immediate neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a feasible and safe option for patients presenting with early stridor and helps in resolution of stridor and avoiding tracheostomy.