Radiochemotherapy of locally advanced anal canal carcinoma: Prospective assessment of early impact on the quality of life (randomized trial ACCORD 03)

Background and purposeThe aim of this study was to prospectively assess the quality of life (QOL) of patients treated by concomitant chemo radiation for locally advanced anal canal carcinoma.Materials and methodsWe report on a subgroup of 119 patients enrolled in a 306-patient therapeutic intensification prospective trial (ACCORD 03). This trial evaluated the impact on colostomy-free survival of induction chemotherapy and/or high dose radiotherapy (factorial design 2 ∗ 2 treatment arms). QOL was assessed both before and 2 months after treatment using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire as well as a questionnaire relating to anal sphincter conservative treatment (AS-CT).ResultsCompared to pre-treatment scores, patients reported significant improvement in their emotional function (+8.4 points p = 0.002), global health status (+5.9 points p = 0.0007), as well as a decrease in insomnia (−13.8 points p < 0.0001), constipation (−12.0 points p < 0.0001), appetite loss (−10.3 points p < 0.0001) and pain (−9.6 points p = 0.0002). The AS-CT degree of satisfaction with intestinal functions score was increased (+11.2 points p < 0.0001).ConclusionThis is the first prospective study comparing QOL of patients with advanced anal canal carcinoma, before and 2 months after conservative treatment. Two months after treatment, QOL was improved. Induction chemotherapy and/or high dose radiotherapy did not provide a negative impact on QOL.