Selective transcatheter arterial infusion of cisplatin in palliative intent for residual bulky tongue cancers after intravenous systemic chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy: Two case reports

Abstract

Concurrent radiotherapy with Transcatheter Arterial Infusion (TAI) chemotherapy is reportedly effective in curing locally advanced head and neck cancer. However, the effectiveness and safety of using TAI with palliative or salvage intent after radiotherapy combined with systemic intravenous chemotherapy (IV-CRT) is not well known. Herein, we describe two cases using TAI palliatively for locally advanced residual tongue cancer after IV-CRT, where tumor reduction or tumor progress inhibition could be achieved, thereby improving or maintaining the patients’ quality of life without severe toxicities. These cases indicate the effectiveness and safety of using TAI palliatively for locally advanced tongue cancer. Further, we have combined a literature review with the description of these cases. Keywords: tongue cancer; transcatheter arterial infusion; palliative interventional radiology