Definitive extended-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy with chemotherapy for cervical cancer with para-aortic nodal metastasis.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of definitive extended-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy (EF-IMRT) with chemotherapy in cervical cancer with para-aortic lymph node (PAN) metastasis. Patients and Methods: The present retrospective cohort study involved 45 consecutive patients. EF-IMRT consisted of 46 Gy to pelvic and para-aortic regions, 14 Gy-boost to gross nodes, and 30 Gy in six fractions of intracavitary brachytherapy. Platinum-based chemotherapy occurred simultaneously. Results: Two-year overall and disease-free survival rates (median follow-up=30 months) were 85.4% and 61.7%, respectively. In 78%, 89%, and 89%, the primary cervical mass, pelvic metastasis, and PAN metastasis exhibited a complete response, respectively. Ten, four, and other four patients exhibited locoregional (including post-treatment residual disease), distant, and combined failure, respectively. The most common severe acute toxicity was hematological (n=36). One and two patients had severe late gastrointestinal and other toxicities, respectively. Conclusion: EF-IMRT (to 60 Gy) plus chemotherapy resulted in good locoregional control, survival rates, and acceptable toxicity.