The efficacy and safety of docetaxel with cisplatin compared with other chemotherapies in definitive chemoradiotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a real-world study

Background Regarding concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), the combination of docetaxel and cisplatin (DP regimen) is a promising option for treating head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with a relatively low dose of cisplatin; however, its non-inferiority to other chemotherapies in efficacy and tolerability remains unclear. Methods In this retrospective multi-institutional study, the efficacy and safety of the DP regimen were compared with those of other chemotherapy regimens in patients who underwent CCRT for HNSCC. Overall survival, progression-free survival, and adverse effects—including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)—were evaluated as outcome measures. Results Study results showed that a total of 211 patients were included. The prevalence of oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer was 44%, 33%, and 17%, respectively. Overall response and recurrence rates were comparable between the DP regimen and high-dose CDDP alone. Although overall and progression-free survival tended to be longer with the DP regimen than with high-dose CDDP, the differences were not statistically significant. Neutropenia was more frequently observed with the DP regimen, but the chemotherapy completion rate was comparable to that of high-dose CDDP alone. Regarding renal function, eGFR significantly decreased with high-dose CDDP but not with the DP regimen. Conclusions A combination of docetaxel and cisplatin in concurrent chemoradiotherapy was a favorable option for treating HNSCC with acceptable efficacy and manageable toxicity.