['squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck']
['cisplatin', 'docetaxel xrp6976', 'dexamethasone', 'dexamethasone']

        Inclusion criteria :

          -  Histologically confirmed, unresectable locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of
             head and neck of oral cavity in stage III-IV without evidence of distant metastases.

          -  No prior chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

          -  Having at least one measurable lesion in one dimension.

          -  Age ≥18 and <65 years with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group ≤ 1.

          -  Adequate organ function:

          -  Adequate hematological function

          -  Adequate hepatic function

          -  Renal function within normal limits

        Exclusion criteria:

          -  Peripheral neuropathy > grade 1 or other serious diseases (unstable ischaemic heart
             disease, acute myocardial infarction six months prior to inclusion, history of
             significant neurological or psychiatric disorder or active peptic ulcer).

          -  Being treated concomitantly with corticosteroids (except as pre-medication).

          -  Patients having another type of cancer.

          -  Previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

          -  Any previous definitive surgery for squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck.

          -  Severe weight loss (> 20 % of body weight) in the preceding 3 months.

          -  Hearing loss (> grade 2).

          -  Pregnancy (pregnancy test result for women of childbearing potential).

          -  Sexually active females with lack of adequate contraception.

        The above information is not intended to contain all considerations relevant to a patient's
        potential participation in a clinical trial.
      