The use of combined chemotherapy and radiation for gastrointestinal malignancies has several theoretical advantages, and clinical trials to determine the type and extent of clinical benefits have been performed.
Methods
The basic science and clinical trial data evaluating such combinations are reviewed, with an emphasis on the interactions between fluoropyrimidines and radiation.
Results
Improved outcomes from chemoradiotherapy have been demonstrated in patients with selected stages of anal, esophageal, rectal, and pancreatic cancer.
Conclusion
Despite these positive results, further work is needed to demonstrate even more effective and less toxic treatment regimens.
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