Weekly docetaxel in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Background: The objective of this study was to assess the antitumor activity and toxicity profile of weekly docetaxel in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Methods: Patients with recurrent, metastatic, incurable squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were enrolled. Weekly docetaxel (30 mg/m2) was administered for 4 weeks every 5 weeks for a maximum of 6 cycles.

Results: The activity and toxicity of docetaxel were assessed in all 38 patients who were entered on the study. No Grade 3-4 toxicities were recorded. No treatment delays were required because of toxicity or dose reductions. Responses were observed in 42% of patients (95% confidence interval, 26-58%). The median duration of response was 8.39 months, the estimated median overall survival was 11.3 months, and the 1-year survival rate was 39%.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggested that weekly docetaxel was an active agent for patients with recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.