Frequency and characteristics of docetaxel-induced radiation recall phenomenon

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and characteristics of a docetaxel-induced radiation recall phenomenon. Methods and Materials: Past histories of radiotherapy and radiation recall phenomenon (RRP) were analyzed in 461 patients who were administered docetaxel at our hospital between September 2002 and November 2005. Results: Of the 461 patients, 171 underwent radiotherapy before starting docetaxel. RRP was noted in 3 patients (1.8%). The 3 cases show that RRP tends to develop in patients treated with lower-energy photon beams of <= 6 MV and in patients with marked acute phase reactions during radiotherapy. Conclusions: The incidence of RRP induced by docetaxel was 1.8%, making it a comparatively rare condition. However, docetaxel is increasingly being used for patients with head and neck tumors, and caution regarding development of RRP is warranted after use of docetaxel after high-dose radiotherapy with photon beams of <= 6 MV. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc.