Abstract
ObjectivesTo describe the clinical and histopathological characteristics and outcomes of patient with non-surgically managed locally advanced rectal cancer and a complete clinical response to neoadjuvant treatment. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on a cohort of patients with stages II and III rectal cancer, on clinical follow up after subjected to chemoradiotherapy. The overall disease free survival and recurrence rates were evaluated. The biological (Kras, Ki67, p53) and morphological (grade, lymphovascular and perineural invasion) characteristics of the tumor were recorded. ResultsBetween January 2003 and June 2013, a total of 19 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer and a complete clinical response after neoadjuvant treatment, did not accept radical surgical treatment. With a median follow-up of 21 months (range 4-92 months), the recurrences were: 21% in the first year, 36% at 3 years, and 42% at 5 years (total: 8 patients). There was local recurrence in 50% of the cases, regional in 50%, and there were no systemic recurrences. The estimated local recurrence rate was 2.3 recurrences per 100 patients/month (95% CI; 1.21 – 4.5), and a regional recurrence of 1.3 recurrences per 100 patients/month (95% CI: 0.5 – 3.1). No relationship was found between the expression of biological factors of the primary tumor and the outcomes. ConclusionsThe indication for radical surgical treatment after neoadjuvant treatment is demonstrated in all patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. The low local and regional recurrence rates of this series suggest the possibility of local resection or observation in selected cases. Individualization and the wishes of the patient must be taken into account when making decisions.
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