Research archive · This publication is preserved from the LEMMO Cancer Care library. Findings are specific to the study design and population and may not reflect current clinical practice.
Dis Esophagus. 2010 Nov;23(8):E42-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2010.01110.x. Epub 2010 Oct 11.
Hulshof MC, Van Haaren PM, Zum Vörde Sive Vörding PJ, Krishnadath S, Marsman WA, Van Berge Henegouwen MI, Geijsen ED, Crezee J.
Source
Department of Radiation Oncology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Abstract
Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) forms about 0.1% of all primary esophageal cancers. Treatment options are very limited for patients unfit for surgery. This is the first report describing the results of external radiotherapy combined with regional hyperthermia for two inoperable PMME patients. Two patients with a T2-3N0M0 PMME were considered unfit for surgery based on age and general condition. External radiotherapy of a total dose of 35 Gy was given in a scheme of seven times 5 Gy, two times per week, and once weekly combined with external and intraluminal hyperthermia (aim 43°C). Toxicity was mild and both patients completed treatment according to protocol. Adequate temperatures at the intraluminal border of the tumor were achieved. In both patients, a complete remission was achieved with complete relief of obstructive symptoms and without signs of locoregional tumor progression until the end of follow-up at 11 and 15 months. External radiation combined with regional hyperthermia could be a good alternative to resection in patients unfit for surgery with a malignant melanoma of the esophagus.