Combined MTX-5FU-CBDCA for the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

Combination chemotherapy including 5FU and carboplatin (CBDCA) with methotrexate (MTX) and leucovorin (LV) as biochemical modulation was performed on patients with head and neck cancer. A total of 32 patients were treated in the order of MTX, continuous 5FU infusion and LV injection, CBDCA. 24 of the 32 patients were concurrently treated with radiation therapy. Treatment-associated toxicity was significant, including mucositis, myelosuppression and body weight losses, but they were within acceptable limits. The 5-year survival rates calculated using Kaplan-Meyer methods were 41.3%.