Toxicity in combined modality treatment of HNSCC: Cisplatin versus cetuximab.

5526 Background: The standard of care for locally advanced HNSCC remains concurrent cisplatin (CIS) and radiotherapy (RT). In British Columbia patients ineligible for CIS (eg. renal or cardiac dysfunction, hearing loss), receive cetuximab (CET) and RT. We conducted a population based retrospective review at the British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA) to compare deliverability, toxicity and outcomes. Methods: Charts of locally advanced HNSCC pts treated with RT (standard, hypofractionated or concomitant boost) and CIS (100mg/m2day 1, 22, 43) or CET (400mg/m2 on Day -7 and 250mg/m2 weekly) between Aug 2007 and Jan 2010 were reviewed. Data was collected on diagnosis, treatment intended and received, adverse effects and outcomes. Statistical analyses were undertaken using t-tests and chi-square. Results: 190 patients (118 CIS, 72 CET) were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. Baseline characteristics were similar except in age (56.5 CIS vs 63.1 CET, p=0.005) and RT fractionation. CIS patients required more ...