BACKGROUNDTo investigate the efficacy of EP regimen combined with split-course hyperfractionated accelerated irradiation for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

METHODSThe treatment was composed of 3 cycles of combined chemoradiotherapy at 4-week intervals. Chemotherapy with cisplatin ( 30 mg/m²) and etoposide (60 mg/m²) was administrated intravenously on days 1-3, followed by radiotherapy on days 4-8. A course of radiotherapy consisted of 1.5 Gy per fraction, twice a day (3 Gy per day) for 5 consecutive days, for a total dose of 15 Gy. In the third cycle, additional irradiotherapy consisted of 2 Gy once a day was performed on days 11-15, for a total dose up to 55 Gy during 10 weeks. After three cycles, patients were given 2 additional cycles of chemotherapy with MVP regimen.

RESULTSOf the 43 patients, 12 had a complete remission and 22 a partial response, resulting in an overall response rate of 79.1%. Of the 152 chemotherapeutic cycles administrated, there were 40 during which grade III-IV toxicities occurred, mainly consisting of leukopenia and vomiting. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 66.7% and 57.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONSEP regimen combined with split-course hyperfractionated accelerated irradiation is effective and well tolerated for advanced locally non-small celll lung cancer. It should be investigated further.