Evaluation of the combination of docetaxel/carboplatin in patients with metastatic or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN): a Southwest Oncology Group Phase II study.

Carboplatin/docetaxel chemotherapy was evaluated in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Eligibility included patients with recurrent, persistent, or metastatic SCCHN with Zubrod performance status 0-2. Docetaxel 65 mg/m(2) and carboplatin (AUC of 6) were given IV in a 21-day cycle to 68 patients. Response probability was 25 percent (95%CI: 15-38). The major toxicity observed was neutropenia, with 36 patients (61 percent) experiencing Grade 3 or worse. Median progression-free survival was 3.8 months (95%CI, 3.1-4.8) Median overall survival was 7.4 months (95%CI, 6.2-8.9). The results of this study suggest this regimen is active for outpatient treatment of recurrent SCCHN patients with good performance status.