Evaluation of Hypofractionated Radiation Effects on Pulmonary Function and Quality of Life in Post-Mastectomy Breast Cancer Patients (Code-T0273)

Introduction: Hypofractionated radiation therapy (HFRT) is increasingly used for post-mastectomy breast cancer patients due to its shorter treatment duration and comparable oncological outcomes. However, its effects on pulmonary function and overall quality of life remain an area of ongoing research. This study aims to evaluate these effects in post-mastectomy patients undergoing HFRT.

Aims and Objectives:

Aim: To assess the efficacy of induction chemotherapy with taxane, platinum and 5-fluorouracil

(TPF) followed by chemoradiation for organ preservation in patients of locally advanced

laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers.

Primary Objective: To assess the response in patients with locally advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal

cancers after receiving induction chemotherapy (TPF) followed by chemoradiation.

Secondary Objective: To assess the toxicity of induction chemotherapy (TPF) followed by chemoradiation in patients of locally advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers by CTCAE version 5.0 criteria.

Methods: This prospective observational study included post-mastectomy breast cancer patients receiving HFRT. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were conducted before, during, and after treatment. Quality of life was assessed using validated patient-reported outcome measures. Radiation-induced toxicity was graded using standard oncology criteria. Statistical analysis was performed to compare baseline and post-treatment values.

Results: A significant decline in pulmonary function parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), was observed post-HFRT (p < 0.05). However, these changes remained within clinically acceptable limits. Quality of life scores showed no significant deterioration, with most patients reporting stable or improved well-being. Incidences of Grade 2 or higher radiation pneumonitis were minimal.

Conclusion: HFRT in post-mastectomy breast cancer patients leads to mild but clinically manageable pulmonary function decline without significantly impacting quality of life. Further long-term studies are required to validate these findings and optimize patient care.

Keywords: Hypofractionated radiation, pulmonary function, breast cancer, post-mastectomy, quality of life, radiation toxicity.