Concurrent carboplatin and paclitaxel with pelvic radiation therapy in the primary treatment of cervical cancer

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the feasibility of weekly carboplatin/paclitaxel with radiation therapy (RT) in the primary treatment of cervical cancer. Study Design: Women diagnosed with stage IB-1 to stage IVA untreated primary cervical cancer were eligible. Carboplatin (area under the curve = 2.0) and paclitaxel 40 mg/m² were administered weekly for 6 weeks with pelvic RT. Brachytherapy was completed after pelvic RT. Acute toxicities and response to treatment were assessed. Results: Twenty-two evaluable patients were enrolled. The median duration of follow-up was 23 months. Carboplatin (mean dose 245 mg) and paclitaxel (mean dose 70 mg) were successfully administered in 97% and 90% of planned treatments, respectively. Median time to complete external radiation therapy was 36.6 days (25-57 days). Grade 3/4 hematologic or gastrointestinal toxicity was unusual. The complete response rate 3 months after completion of therapy was 91%. The estimated 3-year progression-free survival is 70% and overall survival is 65%. Conclusion: Weekly carboplatin/paclitaxel and RT is a reasonable treatment regimen for cervical cancer.