Induction Chemotherapy Using FAP for Patients with Stage II/III Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus.

Background: The aim of this study were to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of chemotherapy using fluorouracil, adriamycin, and cisplatin (FAP) in patients with clinical stage II/III squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCCE).

Patients And Methods: Forty patients were enrolled in the study. They received 30 mg/m(2) adriamycin and 70 mg/m(2) cisplatin on day 1, and 700 mg/m(2) 5-fluorouracil on days 1-5 every four weeks. Following two courses of chemotherapy, eligible patients underwent esophagectomy.

Results: Twenty-one patients (53%) achieved partial response, and 27 patients underwent surgical resection (resection rate: 68%). Grade 3/4 toxicities developed: 7 patients (18%) with leukopenia, 23 (58%) with neutropenia. The three and five-year survival rates were 55% and 48%. Patients with surgical resection had better prognosis than those without resection, with a three-year survival rate of 68% vs. 25%.

Conclusion: FAP is effective and feasible and surgery may provide additional benefit for SCCE patients with FAP.