Objective To evaluate prospectively the side effects and tolerance of docetaxel with concurrent late-course hyperfractionated radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery for stage T1-T2 breast cancer, and to assess the value of this treatment in shortening the treatment time and reducing the economic burden among patients.
Methods A total of 20 patients with T1-T2 breast cancer were recruited after they underwent breast-conserving surgery. The acute radiation response classification, treatment completion rate, disease-free survival, hospital stays, and treatment costs were observed. Radiotherapy for all patients was started before the last single-agent docetaxel chemotherapy.
Results The completion rate of treatment and the good rate of cosmetic effect reached 100%. The main adverse reactions were hematological toxicity (leukopenia) and skin reactions, which were tolerated. The median follow-up time was 30.1 months, and the follow-up rate was 100%. The average total treatment time of this hyperfractionated radiotherapy with concurrent docetaxel was four weeks, and the total hospitalization cost savings was approximately 10, 000 yuan. The 21-month disease-free survival rate was 100%.
Conclusion Stage T1-T2 breast cancer can tolerate hyperfractionated radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy after a breast-conserving operation. The procedure results in good local control and satisfactory cosmetic effects, with high health and economic value.
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