Split-course radiation therapy of carcinoma of the base of the tongue: results of a prospective national collaborative clinical trial conducted by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group.

One hundred forty-one patients with carcinoma of the base of tongue were randomized to receive either continuous course radiotherapy (6600 rad in 30/33 fractions over 7-8 weeks) or split course therapy (3000 rad in 10 fractions over 2 weeks, a three-week rest, 3000 rad in 10 fractions over 2 weeks). Both treatment groups tolerated the treatment well, but the continuous course group required more treatment modifications. The results of therapy, as judged by control of primary tumor, control of metastatic lymph nodes, time to failure and overall survival were comparable in the two treatment groups.