Comparison of Efficacy and Toxicity of Carboplatin or Cisplatin-Based Chemoradiotherapy in Elderly Patients with Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) is the standard management approach for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC). The optimal choice between Carboplatin and Cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy for elderly patients remains uncertain. This study compares the efficacy and toxicity of these treatments in a cohort of 50 elderly patients over 65 years old diagnosed with LA-NSCLC. Patients were divided into two groups: one receiving Carboplatin with Paclitaxel, while the other received Cisplatin with Etoposide, both alongside thoracic radiotherapy. Overall survival rates were similar between the two regimens, with Carboplatin showing 45.5% and Cisplatin 35.1%. However, the Carboplatin group experienced significantly less toxicity, including anemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, and renal toxicity. These results suggest that while both regimens provide comparable survival outcomes, Carboplatin may be a more favorable option due to its reduced toxicity profile.