Comparison of Weekly and Triweekly Cisplatin Regimens in the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Simple Summary Locally advanced head and neck squamous-cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC) is often treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy. A commonly used chemotherapy drug, cisplatin, can be given either once a week in smaller doses (30–50 mg/m2) or once every three weeks in a higher dose (100 mg/m2), but it is still unclear which schedule works better and causes fewer side effects. In this study, we carefully analyzed data from 15 clinical trials that included over 1500 patients to compare the weekly and three-weekly treatment schedules. We investigated and compared treatment compliance, treatment response, survival rates, and the occurrence of side effects. We found that both schedules were similar in terms of treatment success and side effects. Although patients receiving the three-weekly treatment received a higher total dose of cisplatin, this did not influence efficacy or safety outcomes. Overall, both schedules appear to be equally effective and safe. Our findings indicate that the treatment plan should be based on the individual patient’s needs, health condition, convenience, and ability to tolerate the treatment. These findings can help guide more personalized care for patients with advanced head and neck cancers.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,500 participants or records.
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