PURPOSETo evaluate the radiosensitizing effect of cisplatin combined with radiotherapy for esophageal carcinoma. METHODS From 1989 to 1990. 60 patients with esophageal were treated. It was divided into two groups. Radiotherapy group (R) and radiotherapy plus cisplatin (20mg iv. twice a week) (R + C). A total dose of 66-70 Gy/6-7 wk was used in (R) and (R+C) group. RESULTS The 1 year. 3 year. 5 year survival rats were R : R+C = 46. 7%、20%、10% : 60%、30%、23%. CONCLUSION This study may imply that rational administration of cisplatin in the radiotherapy could improve the radiotherapy result of the esophageal carcinoma.