Definitive radiotherapy plus regional hyperthermia with or without chemotherapy for superior sulcus tumors: A 20-year, single center experience

To assess the efficacy and toxicity of definitive radiotherapy (RT) plus regional hyperthermia (HT) in treating superior sulcus tumors (SSTs), and to identify predictors of positive outcomes. Twenty-four patients with SSTs treated with definitive RT plus regional HT were retrospectively analyzed. The median total dose of RT was 70 Gy. All patients were treated with an 8-MHz RF-capacitive heating device. Twelve of 24 (50%) patients also underwent chemotherapy. Those with either subcutaneous fat measuring 2.5 cm or greater, or any other serious complications did not undergo this therapy. Overall survival, local control, and distant metastasis-free survival rates at 3 years were 47%, 55%, and 71%, respectively. Chemotherapy and younger age (<65 years) were significant predictors of the overall survival rate. Clinical stage (IIB) was a statistically significant prognostic indicator for local control survival rate. Toxicities were mild, with Grade 3 dermatitis seen in one patient. Definitive RT plus regional HT with chemotherapy may be a promising treatment for SSTs. The results justify further evaluation with detailed treatment protocols in a large number of patients.