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When giving concurrent chemoradiation therapy, is it important that the infusion be prior to RT as opposed to after RT?

Is there data supporting the idea that chemotherapy must be onboard prior to delivering radiation for maximal radiosensitization (particularly for head and neck or cervix)? Do you ever start radiation +/- 24-48 hrs from C1D1 for chemotherapy due to logistical barriers? Do you prefer chemotherapy to start at beginning of the week vs. end of the week?
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Radiation Oncology · Varian Medical Systems/Allegheny health network
Answered on

Radiobiological data suggest better cell kill when cisplatin is given before RT and then given after (1.7x vs. 1.2x) and similarly when delivered daily vs when delivered weekly. In practice, for that reason, we do it before RT and early in the week (Monday or Tuesday). The ongoing cervix OUTBACK tri...

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