SOR guidelines for concomitant chemoradiotherapy for patients with uterine cervical cancers: evidence update bulletin 2004.

BACKGROUND In 1993 the French National Federation of Cancer Centres (FNCLCC) initiated the Standards, Options and Recommendations (SOR) project. This is a collaboration between the FNCLCC, the 20 French cancer centres, and specialists from French public universities, general hospitals and private clinics, and some specialists learned societies. The main objective is to develop clinical practice guidelines to improve the quality of health care and the outcome of cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS The SORs are developed using a methodology based on a literature review and critical appraisal by a multidisciplinary group of experts, with feedback from specialists in cancer care delivery. RESULTS In 1999, the initial SORs for the management of women with cervical cancer were published. At that time the use of chemoradiotherapy was considered as an option. Since this original publication, five randomised trials comparing chemoradiotherapy with radiotherapy have been published, as well as a systematic review and two other clinical practice guidelines. In the light of this additional evidence, it was decided to update the guidelines on chemoradiotherapy in women with cervical cancer. CONCLUSION After selection, critical analysis and integration of new evidence, chemoradiotherapy has become a standard for women with cervical cancer.