Comparison of Three Survival Scores in a Series of Patients ≥80 Years of Age Irradiated for Bone Metastases

Background/Aim: Very elderly patients irradiated for bone metastases likely benefit from individualized treatments. A specific survival score was created for this group and compared to existing instruments. Patients and Methods: Ninety-six patients aged 80+ irradiated for bone metastases were retrospectively evaluated. Dose-fractionation regimen plus twelve characteristics were evaluated for survival. Results: In the Cox regression model, performance status and tumor type were significant and used for the score, which included three groups (5-7, 8-12, and 14 points) with 6-month survival rates of 15%, 52%, and 90%. Positive predictive values (PPVs) regarding death ≤6 months were 85% (new score), 100% (previous 65+ score), and 84% (previous score for any age). The new instrument and the 65+ score were also very accurate regarding survival. Since PPV regarding death was calculated from only four patients for the 65+ score, this PPV may be less conclusive than that for the new instrument. Conclusion: The new score appears useful for patients aged 80+ irradiated for bone metastases.