Efficacy and safety of endoscopic resection followed by chemoradiotherapy with S-1 plus cisplatin for esophageal cancer.

In 30 seconds

This single-centre, single-arm exploratory phase II study assessed endoscopic resection (ER) followed by chemoradiotherapy (CRT) with S-1 plus cisplatin in patients with superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma requiring additional treatment because of pathological stage or lymphovascular invasion. Among 38 patients who received CRT, 3-year overall survival was 94.7% (90% CI, 84.1-98.3%), exceeding the study’s predefined threshold. Three-year progression-free survival was 92.1% (90% CI, 80.8-96.9%). Grade ≥ 3 adverse events occurred in 55%; metastatic recurrence was observed in two patients (5%).

Key findings

• Three-year overall survival was 94.7% (90% CI, 84.1-98.3%), and the lower confidence limit exceeded the predefined threshold.
• Three-year progression-free survival was 92.1% (90% CI, 80.8-96.9%).
• Grade ≥ 3 adverse events occurred in 55% of patients; no febrile neutropenia was reported.
• Metastatic recurrence occurred in two patients (5%).

Why it matters

The study provides phase II evidence on a post-resection CRT regimen for superficial ESCC in patients with pathological features prompting additional treatment. The reported survival outcomes are favorable, while the frequency of severe adverse events underscores that efficacy must be considered alongside treatment toxicity.

What to keep in mind

The study was single-centre, single-arm, exploratory, and included 38 patients; without a comparator, it cannot establish superiority over other post-resection approaches.