Chemoradiation for Laryngeal Cancer:Present Scenario

Abstract

The management of locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx is complex. Data from recent clinical trials have refined the useof existing therapies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and providing new treatment options, such as cetuximab. Selecting themost appropriate treatment for an individual patient requires a multidisciplinary approach and careful assessment of the relative advantagesand disadvantages of each treatment approach. Chemoradiation is more effective than conventional radiation therapy, but also more toxic.Cetuximab plus radiation therapy is more effective than radiation alone and does not substantially increase radiation-related toxicity. Multimodalityapproach for laryngeal cancer has shown better organ preservation rates and survival. Ideally, multidisciplinary teams should weighall these factors when making individual treatment decisions. Data from current trials will help further optimize multimodality treatment forLaryngeal Cancer.