Cox-2 inhibition and chemoradiation for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

6065 Background: Concurrent chemoradiation is accepted as a standard option for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Other strategies however are needed in order to improve local regional control and ultimate outcomes. Cyclo-oxygenase 2 (Cox-2) inhibition induces radiosentization and chemosentization. We conducted a Phase I/II trial using chemoradiation with Celecoxib in advanced SCCHN and reported the results after a 4 year median follow-up. Methods: From 12/02- 7/06 30 patients with locally advanced or recurrent SCCHN were entered. The objectives were to evaluate toxicity, determine the local control and disease free survival. Patients were treated with weekly carboplatin (AUC=2.0), paclitaxel (30mg/m2), radiotherapy (70Gy) and celecoxib 400mg bid. The celecoxib was started 1 week prior to the initiation of the concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Initially the celecoxib was given for a total of 2 years. After reports of concerns for cardiotoxicity, we discontinued the study 1...