Efficacy of central-shielding external beam radiotherapy for FIGO stage IB2 carcinoma of the cervix: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is now the leading cause of malignancy-related morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Concurrent chemo-radiation using cisplatin alone, or in combination with 5-fluorouracil is considered the main treatment for FIGO stage 1B2 disease or higher for patients who cannot or choose not to have surgery.

Objective: To report the efficacy of central-shielding external beam radiotherapy in the treatment of grade 1, FIGO stage 1B2 carcinoma of the uterine cervix.

Case description: A 55-year-old female reported a history of backache and post-coital pain associated with vaginal bleeding for three months. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer FIGO stage 1B2 and chose not to have surgery.                                                                                                                                                   

Method: A computed tomography scan simulation and three-dimensional treatment planning were done, and a total dose of 45Gy of EBRT was administered in fractions for five weeks. Control ultrasonography was then performed to assess the efficacy of CS-EBRT before initiating intracavitary brachytherapy.

Results: Five weeks of CS-EBRT showed significant tumor regression and improvements in health status.

Conclusion: A well-planned central-shielding radiotherapy alone may be curative in selected patients with cervical cancer FIGO stage IB2. Large-scale studies are warranted to compare the efficacy of concurrent chemoradiation with that of radiotherapy in this patient population.