Health-related quality of life and late morbidity in concurrent chemoradiation and radiotherapy alone in patients with locally advanced cervical carcinoma |
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Authors: | Maaike J. Berveling Johannes A. Langendijk Jannet C. Beukema Marian J. E. Mourits Anna K. L. Reyners Elisabeth Pras |
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Affiliation: | 1Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen/University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.;2Department of Gynecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen/University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.;3Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen/University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. |
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Abstract: | ObjectiveConcurrent chemoradiation has improved survival of patients with cervical carcinoma. However, follow-up of randomized studies is relatively short and data on long term toxicity are scarce, as is information on their health-related quality of life. This study assesses and compares incidences of late side-effects among patients treated with radiotherapy or chemoradiation using two toxicity scoring systems, and investigates impact on health-related quality of life.MethodsBetween 1985 and 1993, 114 patients underwent radiotherapy (n=39) or chemoradiation (n=75) for stage IIA-IVB cervical carcinoma. Late side-effects were scored retrospectively by reviewing medical charts using standardised checklists, focusing on bladder- and intestinal side effects. Health-related quality of life was assessed once using the EORTC QLQ-C30.ResultsNo significant differences in late treatment-related side-effects between radiotherapy and chemoradiation groups were found. Grade ≥ 2 toxicity was found in 33% (bladder), and in 6% (bowel). Only 1.8% had both grade 3-4 toxicity. Bladder syndrome with high urinary frequency, urine incontinence and small bowel toxicity had a significant impact on health-related quality of life.ConclusionGrade 2 are relatively frequent late side effects in curatively treated patients, but are not enhanced by the addition of chemotherapy. Their negative impact on health-related quality of life stresses the importance of new radiation techniques, aiming at reduction of these side effects. |
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Keywords: | Cervical carcinoma Concurrent radiochemotherapy Late treatment-related morbidity Radiotherapy |
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