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Guinot JL, Diezhandino P, de Frutos JM, Fuentemilla N, Gonzalez-Perez V, Gutierrez C, Herreros A, Martinez-Monge R, Perez-Echagüen S, Pino F, Roldán S, Rovirosa A, Santos MA, Sanz-Freire CJ, Villafranca E. Status of head and neck brachytherapy in Spain in 2022. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:456-460. [PMID: 37548869 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03265-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brachytherapy (BT) has been used for many years for disease control in tumours of the head and neck area (H&N). It is currently performed with high dose rate (HDR) or pulsed dose rate (PDR), but its use has been reduced due to the implementation of new non-invasive external beam radiotherapy techniques such as intensity modulation (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and the improvement of surgical techniques. METHODS The Spanish Brachytherapy Group (GEB) has carried out a survey to find out the number of centres in Spain that continue to use BT in H&N and its indications and expectations for the future. RESULTS The results were presented at the XX GEB Consensus Meeting held on October 21, 2022, in Valencia (Spain) and it was confirmed that, although there are fewer and fewer centres that use BT in H&N, there are still units with extensive experience in this technique that should be positioned as referral centres. CONCLUSION It is necessary to carry out continuous work with other specialities involved, such as H&N surgeons, and other radiation oncologists, to improve the training of residents, both oncologists and medical physicists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luis Guinot
- Radiation Oncology Department, Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Oncologia (I.V.O.), C/Profesor Beltran Baguena 8, 46009, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Patricia Diezhandino
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Jesus Maria de Frutos
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Naiara Fuentemilla
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Victor Gonzalez-Perez
- Department of Medical Physics, Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Oncologia (I.V.O.), Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Gutierrez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Herreros
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Clínic Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Susana Perez-Echagüen
- Radiation Oncology Department, CIBIR - Complejo Hospitalario San Pedro La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - Francisco Pino
- Department of Medical Physics, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Roldán
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Angels Rovirosa
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Clínic Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Angel Santos
- Radiation Oncology Department, Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Oncologia (I.V.O.), C/Profesor Beltran Baguena 8, 46009, Valencia, Spain
| | - Camilo Jose Sanz-Freire
- Medical Physics Department, CIBIR - Complejo Hospitalario San Pedro La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - Elena Villafranca
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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Sammouri J, Venkatesan AM, Lin LL, Jhingran A, Klopp AH, Joyner MM, Eifel PJ, Colbert LE. Management and long-term clinical outcomes of patients with stage IVA cervical cancer with bladder involvement. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 180:24-34. [PMID: 38041900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the long-term outcomes of patients with stage IVA cervical cancer, a rare and deadly disease for which long-term toxicity data are scarce, to guide clinician counseling and survivorship support. METHODS In a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database, we identified 76 patients with stage IVA cervical cancer with biopsy- or MRI-proven bladder mucosal involvement who received definitive radiotherapy (external beam radiotherapy [EBRT] alone or EBRT plus brachytherapy) with or without chemotherapy at our institution between 2000 and 2020. We used Kaplan-Meier modeling to estimate recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) and used proportional hazard modeling to identify clinical variables associated with recurrence or survival. We performed actuarial competing risk modeling for severe late toxicity (grades 3 to 5, occurring >6 months of follow-up) and vesicovaginal fistulae (VVF), censoring for pelvic recurrence and death, and made comparisons between potential predictors using Gray's test and binary logistic regression. RESULTS The median follow-up time was 76 months (interquartile range 58-91). The median OS duration was 35 months (range, 18-not reached), and the 2- and 5-year OS rates were 53.6% and 40.9%, respectively. OS and RFS did not differ significantly between patients who received EBRT alone (N = 18) or EBRT plus brachytherapy (N = 49). Current smoking was a strong predictor of severe late toxicity, whose incidence was 14% at 2 years and 17% at 10 years. The VVF incidence was 24% at 2 years and 32% at 10 years. CONCLUSION Patients with stage IVA cervical cancer, even those who receive EBRT alone, can have long-term survival. These patients should be followed closely for late radiation-related toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Sammouri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Aradhana M Venkatesan
- Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lilie L Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anuja Jhingran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ann H Klopp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Melissa M Joyner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Patricia J Eifel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren E Colbert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Karius A, Strnad V, Lotter M, Kreppner S, Fietkau R, Bert C. Investigating the impact of breast positioning control on physical treatment parameters in multi-catheter breast brachytherapy. Strahlenther Onkol 2024; 200:49-59. [PMID: 37676482 PMCID: PMC10784386 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02127-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effects of a workflow for reproducible patient and breast positioning on implant stability during high-dose-rate multi-catheter breast brachytherapy. METHODS Thirty patients were treated with our new positioning control workflow. Implant stability was evaluated based on a comparison of planning-CTs to control-CTs acquired halfway through the treatment. To assess geometric stability, button-button distance variations as well as Euclidean dwell position deviations were evaluated. The latter were also quantified within various separated regions within the breast to investigate the location-dependency of implant alterations. Furthermore, dosimetric variations to target volume and organs at risk (ribs, skin) as well as isodose volume changes were analyzed. Results were compared to a previously treated cohort of 100 patients. RESULTS With the introduced workflow, the patient fraction affected by button-button distance variations > 5 mm and by dwell position deviations > 7 mm were reduced from 37% to 10% and from 30% to 6.6%, respectively. Implant stability improved the most in the lateral to medial breast regions. Only small stability enhancements were observed regarding target volume dosimetry, but the stability of organ at risk exposure became substantially higher. D0.2ccm skin dose variations > 12.4% and D0.1ccm rib dose variations > 6.7% were reduced from 11% to 0% and from 16% to 3.3% of all patients, respectively. CONCLUSION Breast positioning control improved geometric and dosimetric implant stability for individual patients, and thus enhanced physical plan validity in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Karius
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Lotter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephan Kreppner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Bert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
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Ferenczi Ö, Major T, Fröhlich G, Béla D, Tódor S, Polgár C, Akiyama H, Bukovszky B, Takácsi-Nagy Z. Dosimetric comparison of postoperative interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy and modern external beam radiotherapy modalities in tongue and floor of the mouth tumours in terms of doses to critical organs. Radiol Oncol 2023; 57:516-523. [PMID: 38038418 PMCID: PMC10690754 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2023-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to dosimetrically compare interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy (BT) and modern external beam radiotherapy modalities, as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and stereotactic radiotherapy with Cyberknife (CK) of tumours of the tongue and floor of the mouth in terms of dose to the critical organs. PATIENTS AND METHODS In National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, between March 2013 and August 2022 twenty patients (11 male/9 female) with stage T1-3N0M0 tongue (n = 14) and floor of mouth (n = 6) tumours received postoperative radiotherapy because of close/positive surgical margin and/or lymphovascular and/or perineural invasion. High-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy applying flexible plastic catheters with a total dose of 15 × 3 Gy was used for treatment. In addition to BT plans VMAT and stereotactic CK plans were also made in all cases, using the same fractionation scheme and dose prescription. As for the organs at risk, the doses to the mandible, the ipsilateral and the contralateral salivary glands were compared. RESULTS The mean volume of the planning target volume (PTV) was 12.5 cm3, 26.5 cm3 and 17.5 cm3 in BT, VMAT and CK techniques, respectively, due to different safety margin protocols. The dose to the mandible was the most favourable with BT, as for the salivary glands (parotid and submandibular) the CK technique resulted in the lowest dose. The highest dose to the critical organs was observed with the VMAT technique. The mean values of D2cm3 and D0.1cm3 for the critical organs were as follows for BT, VMAT and CK plans: 47.4% and 73.9%, 92.2% and 101.8%, 68.4% and 92.3% for the mandible, 4.8% and 6.7%, 7.3% and 13.8%, 2.3% and 5.1% for the ipsilateral parotid gland, 3.5% and 4.9%, 6.8% and 10.9%, 1.5% and 3.3% for the contralateral parotid gland, 7.3% and 9.4%, 9.0% and 14.3%, 3.6% and 5.6% for the contralateral submandibular gland. CONCLUSIONS The present results confirm that BT, despite being an invasive technique, is dosimetrically clearly beneficial in the treatment of oral cavity tumours and is a modality worth considering when applying radiotherapy, not only as definitive treatment, but also postoperatively. The use of the CK in the head and neck region requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Örs Ferenczi
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Major
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Georgina Fröhlich
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Eötvös Loránd University, Faculty of Science, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dalma Béla
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Tódor
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Polgár
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hironori Akiyama
- Department of Oral Radiology, Osaka Dental University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Botond Bukovszky
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oral Diagnostics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Takácsi-Nagy
- Centre of Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- National Tumour Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
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Dürrbeck C, Schuster S, Sauer BC, Abu-Hossin N, Strnad V, Fietkau R, Bert C. Localization of reference points in electromagnetic tracking data and their application for treatment error detection in interstitial breast brachytherapy. Med Phys 2023; 50:5772-5783. [PMID: 37458615 DOI: 10.1002/mp.16629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electromagnetic tracking (EMT) is a promising technology that holds great potential to advance patient-specific pre-treatment verification in interstitial brachytherapy (iBT). It allows easy determination of the implant geometry without line-of-sight restrictions and without dose exposure to the patient. What it cannot provide, however, is a link to anatomical landmarks, such as the exit points of catheters or needles on the skin surface. These landmarks are required for the registration of EMT data with other imaging modalities and for the detection of treatment errors such as incorrect indexer lengths, and catheter or needle shifts. PURPOSE To develop an easily applicable method to detect reference points in the positional data of the trajectory of an EMT sensor, specifically the exit points of catheters in breast iBT, and to apply the approach to pre-treatment error detection. METHODS Small metal objects were attached to catheter fixation buttons that rest against the breast surface to intentionally induce a local, spatially limited perturbation of the magnetic field on which the working principle of EMT relies. This perturbation can be sensed by the EMT sensor as it passes by, allowing it to localize the metal object and thus the catheter exit point. For the proof-of-concept, different small metal objects (magnets, washers, and bushes) and EMT sensor drive speeds were used to find the optimal parameters. The approach was then applied to treatment error detection and validated in-vitro on a phantom. Lastly, the in-vivo feasibility of the approach was tested on a patient cohort of four patients to assess the impact on the clinical workflow. RESULTS All investigated metal objects were able to measurably perturb the magnetic field, which resulted in missing sensor readings, that is two data gaps, one for the sensor moving towards the tip end and one when retracting from there. The size of the resulting data gaps varied depending on the choice of gap points used for calculation of the gap size; it was found that the start points of the gaps in both directions showed the smallest variability. The median size of data gaps was ⩽8 mm for all tested materials and sensor drive speeds. The variability of the determined object position was ⩽0.5 mm at a speed of 1.0 cm/s and ⩽0.7 mm at 2.5 cm/s, with an increase up to 2.3 mm at 5.0 cm/s. The in-vitro validation of the error detection yielded a 100% detection rate for catheter shifts of ≥2.2 mm. All simulated wrong indexer lengths were correctly identified. The in-vivo feasibility assessment showed that the metal objects did not interfere with the routine clinical workflow. CONCLUSIONS The developed approach was able to successfully detect reference points in EMT data, which can be used for registration to other imaging modalities, but also for treatment error detection. It can thus advance the automation of patient-specific, pre-treatment quality assurance in iBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Dürrbeck
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Schuster
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Birte Christina Sauer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nadin Abu-Hossin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Bert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
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Hu P, Huang J, Zhang Y, Guo H, Chen G, Zhang F. Iodine-125 seed implantation in the treatment of malignant tumors. J Interv Med 2023; 6:111-115. [PMID: 37846333 PMCID: PMC10577067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jimed.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant tumors are major causes of morbidity and mortality in China. Despite advances in surgical, radiological, chemotherapeutic, molecular targeting, and immunotherapeutic treatments, patients with malignant tumors still have poor prognoses. Low-dose-rate brachytherapy, specifically 125I seed implantation, is beneficial because of its high local delivery dose and minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Consequently, it has gained increasing acceptance as a treatment modality for various malignant tumors. In this study, we explored the fundamental principles, clinical applications, and new technologies associated with 125I radioactive seed implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Hu
- Department of Minimally Invasive & Interventional Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianwen Huang
- Department of Intervention, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanling Zhang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huanqing Guo
- Department of Minimally Invasive & Interventional Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guanyu Chen
- Department of Minimally Invasive & Interventional Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fujun Zhang
- Department of Minimally Invasive & Interventional Radiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, 651 Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, People’s Republic of China
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Untiedt S, Rolf D, Scobioala S, Wolters H, Elsayad K, Oertel M, Kittel C, Pascher A, Rijcken E, Ullerich H, Glasbrenner B, Eich HT. Impact of dose escalation on colostomy-free survival and treatment outcome in squamous cell anal carcinoma. Strahlenther Onkol 2023; 199:749-760. [PMID: 36862155 PMCID: PMC10361861 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02056-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Primary radiochemotherapy (RCT) constitutes the standard of care for early- and advanced-stage anal carcinoma. This retrospective study investigates the impact of dose escalation on colostomy-free survival (CFS), overall survival (OS), locoregional control (LRC), progression-free survival (PFS), and acute and late toxicities in patients with squamous cell anal cancer. METHODS Considered were the outcomes of 87 patients with anal cancer treated with radiation/RCT between May 2004 and January 2020 at our institution. Toxicities were evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE version 5.0). RESULTS The 87 patients received treatment with a median boost of 63 Gy to the primary tumor. With a median follow-up of 32 months, the 3‑year CFS, OS, LRC, and PFS were 79.5%, 71.4%, 83.9%, and 78.5%, respectively. Tumor relapse occurred in 13 patients (14.9%). Dose escalation to > 63 Gy (maximum 66.6 Gy) to the primary tumor in 38/87 patients revealed a nonsignificant trend for improved 3‑year CFS (82.4% vs. 97%, P = 0.092), a significantly improved CFS for T2/T3 tumors (72.6% vs. 100%, P = 0.008), and a significantly improved 3‑year PFS for T1/T2 tumors (76.7% vs. 100%, P = 0.035). While acute toxicities did not differ, dose escalation > 63 Gy led to a higher rate of chronic skin toxicities (43.8% vs. 69%, P = 0.042). Treatment with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) showed a significant improvement in 3‑year OS (75.4% vs. 53.8%, P = 0.048). In multivariate analysis, significant improvements for T1/T2 tumors (CFS, OS, LRC, PFS), G1/2 tumors (PFS), and IMRT (OS) were shown. The nonsignificant trend for CFS improvement with dose escalation > 63 Gy was also apparent in multivariate analysis (P = 0.067). CONCLUSION Dose escalation > 63 Gy (maximum 66.6 Gy) may improve CFS and PFS for certain subgroups, with a concomitant increase in chronic skin toxicities. Modern IMRT seems to be associated with an improvement in OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Untiedt
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany.
| | - Daniel Rolf
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Sergiu Scobioala
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Heidi Wolters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Khaled Elsayad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Michael Oertel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Christopher Kittel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Andreas Pascher
- Department for General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Emile Rijcken
- Department for General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Hansjörg Ullerich
- Department of Medicine B, Gastroenterology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Bernhard Glasbrenner
- Department of Medicine B, Gastroenterology, St. Franziskus-Hospital Muenster, 48145, Muenster, Germany
| | - Hans Theodor Eich
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, 48149, Muenster, Germany
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Benkhaled S, Diakité K, Jullian N, Poeta S, Vandekerkhove C, Van Houtte P, Van Gestel D, De Caluwé A. Boost modalities in cervical cancer: dosimetric comparison between intracavitary BT vs. intracavitary + interstitial BT vs. SBRT. Radiat Oncol 2023; 18:105. [PMID: 37381016 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-023-02295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE / OBJECTIVE This study compares the dosimetric plans of three distinct boost modalities in cervical cancer (CC): intracavitary (IC) with tandem/ovoids brachytherapy (BT), IC + interstitial (IS) BT, and Stereotactic-Body-Radiotherapy (SBRT). The aim is to determine the dosimetric impact in terms of target coverage and organ at risk (OAR) doses. MATERIALS AND METHODS 24 consecutive IC + IS BT boost treatment plans were retrospectively identified. For each plan included, two additional plans were created: IC-BT and SBRT. Importantly, no planning target volume (PTV) or planning (organ at) risk volume (PRV) margins were generated, therefore all structures were identical for any boost modality. Two different normalizations were performed: (1) Normalization to the target: prescription of 7.1 Gy to the D90% (defined as the minimum dose covering 90%) of the high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV); (2) Normalization to the OARs. HR-CTV coverage and OARs sparing were compared. The equivalent doses in 2 Gy fractions (EQD2) of EBRT and BT for CTV-HR and OARs were calculated using the linear-quadratic model with α/β of 10 (EQD210) and 3 (EQD23), respectively RESULTS: A total of 72 plans were investigated. In the first normalization, the mean EQD23-D2cc (defined as the minimal dose of the 2 cc) of OAR was significantly higher in the IC-BT plans, and the bladder D2cc hard constraint could not be reached. IC + IS BT leads to a 1 Gy mean absolute decrease of bladder EQD23-D2cc (relative dose: -19%), allowing to reach the hard constraint. SBRT (without PTV) delivers the lowest EQD23-D2cc to the OAR. In the second normalization, IC-BT provides a significantly lower dose to the EQD210-D90% (6.62 Gy) and cannot achieve the coverage goal. SBRT (without PTV) yields the highest dose to the D90% of HR-CTV and a significantly lower EQD210-D50% and D30%. CONCLUSION The key dosimetric benefit of BT over SBRT without PTV is a significantly higher D50% and D30% in the HR-CTV, which increases the local and conformal dose to the target. IC + IS BT vs. IC-BT provides significantly better target coverage and a lower dose to the OARs, making it the preferred boost modality in CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofian Benkhaled
- Institut Jules Bordet, Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, UNIL-CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kadiatou Diakité
- Department of Radiation-Oncology, National Center for Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy Alassane, Abidjan, Ivory Coast
| | - Nicolas Jullian
- Institut Jules Bordet, Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Poeta
- Department of Medical-Physics, Institut Jules Bordet-Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Vandekerkhove
- Department of Medical-Physics, Institut Jules Bordet-Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Van Houtte
- Institut Jules Bordet, Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dirk Van Gestel
- Institut Jules Bordet, Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alex De Caluwé
- Institut Jules Bordet, Department of Radiation-Oncology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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9
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Swain M, Budrukkar A, Rembielak A, Kron T, Agarwal JP. Challenges in the Sustainability of Brachytherapy Service in Contemporary Radiotherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023:S0936-6555(23)00205-4. [PMID: 37302881 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Brachytherapy has a long history of delivering a highly conformal radiation dose to the target volume with sparing of adjacent normal tissue and has an irreplaceable role in certain cancers, such as cervical and prostate cancers. There have been futile attempts to replace brachytherapy with other radiation techniques. Despite that there are multifaceted challenges in preserving this dying art, from establishment, to a trained workforce, to maintenance of the equipment and source replacement costs. Here we focus on the challenges to access brachytherapy, the availability and distribution of care across the globe and appropriate training leading to proper implementation of the procedure. Brachytherapy holds a significant place in the treatment armamentarium of most common cancers, such as cervical, prostate, head and neck and skin cancers. However, there is an uneven distribution of brachytherapy facilities, not only across the globe, but also at a national level, with a larger proportion of facilities concentrated in certain regions, more so in low and low-middle income countries. The regions with the highest incidence of cervical cancer have the least access to brachytherapy facilities. Attempts to bridge the gap are essential and should be focused on uniform distribution and access to care, improving training of the workforce through specialised training programmes, reducing the cost of care, planning to reduce the recurring cost, generating evidence and research guidelines, renewing interest in brachytherapy through rebranding, use of social media and building an attainable long-term roadmap.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Swain
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HomiBhabha National Institute (HBNI), Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - A Budrukkar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HomiBhabha National Institute (HBNI), Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - A Rembielak
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - T Kron
- Department of Physical Sciences, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J P Agarwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HomiBhabha National Institute (HBNI), Parel, Mumbai, India.
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10
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Knippen S, Schönherr S, Schwedas M, Teichmann T, Howitz S, Mäurer M, Wittig-Sauerwein A, Duma MN. Low doses to the heart in daily practice for treating left-sided breast cancer using accelerated partial-breast irradiation by multicatheter brachytherapy and deep-inspiration breath-hold using a SIB. Strahlenther Onkol 2023; 199:389-395. [PMID: 36826517 PMCID: PMC10033472 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02047-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to analyze the heart dose for left-sided breast cancer that can be achieved during daily practice in patients treated with multicatheter brachytherapy (MCBT) accelerated partial-breast irradiation (APBI) and deep-inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) whole-breast irradiation (WBI) using a simultaneous integrated tumor bed boost (SIB)-two different concepts which nonetheless share some patient overlap. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed the nominal average dose (Dmean) to the heart as well as the biologically effective dose (BED) and the equivalent dose in 2‑Gy fractions (EQD2) for an α/β of 3 in 30 MCBT-APBI patients and 22 patients treated with DIBH plus SIB. For further dosimetric comparison, we contoured the breast planning target volume (PTV) in each of the brachytherapy planning CTs according to the ESTRO guidelines and computed tangential field plans. Mean dose (Dmean), EQD2 Dmean, and BED Dmean for three dosing schemes were calculated: 50 Gy/25 fractions and two hypofractionated regimens, i.e., 40.05 Gy/15 fractions and 26 Gy/5 fractions. Furthermore, we calculated tangential field plans without a boost for the 22 cases treated with SIB with the standard dosing scheme of 40.05 Gy/15 fractions. RESULTS MCBT and DIBH radiation therapy both show low-dose exposure of the heart. As expected, hypofractionation leads to sparing of the heart dose. Although MCBT plans were not optimized regarding dose to the heart, Dmean differed significantly between MCBT and DIBH (1.28 Gy vs. 1.91 Gy, p < 0.001) in favor of MCBT, even if the Dmean in each group was very low. In MCBT radiation, the PTV-heart distance is significantly associated with the dose to the heart (p < 0.001), but it is not in DIBH radiotherapy using SIB. CONCLUSION In daily practice, both DIBH radiation therapy as well as MCBT show a very low heart exposure and may thus reduce long term cardiac morbidity as compared to currently available long-term clinical data of patients treated with conventional tangential field plans in free breathing. Our analysis confirms particularly good cardiac sparing with MCBT-APBI, so that this technique should be offered to patients with left-sided breast cancer if the tumor-associated eligibility criteria are fulfilled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Knippen
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helios Kliniken Schwerin - University Campus of MSH Medical School Hamburg, Schwerin, Germany.
| | - Sven Schönherr
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Schwedas
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Tobias Teichmann
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Simon Howitz
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, SRH Wald-Klinikum Gera, Gera, Germany
| | - Matthias Mäurer
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Andrea Wittig-Sauerwein
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Marciana-Nona Duma
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helios Kliniken Schwerin - University Campus of MSH Medical School Hamburg, Schwerin, Germany
- MSH Medical School Hamburg, Department for Human Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
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11
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Manna F, Pugliese M, Buonanno F, Gherardi F, Iannacone E, La Verde G, Muto P, Arrichiello C. Use of Thermoluminescence Dosimetry for QA in High-Dose-Rate Skin Surface Brachytherapy with Custom-Flap Applicator. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3592. [PMID: 37050652 PMCID: PMC10098582 DOI: 10.3390/s23073592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Surface brachytherapy (BT) lacks standard quality assurance (QA) protocols. Commercially available treatment planning systems (TPSs) are based on a dose calculation formalism that assumes the patient is made of water, resulting in potential deviations between planned and delivered doses. Here, a method for treatment plan verification for skin surface BT is reported. Chips of thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were used for dose point measurements. High-dose-rate treatments were simulated and delivered through a custom-flap applicator provided with four fixed catheters to guide the Iridium-192 (Ir-192) source by way of a remote afterloading system. A flat water-equivalent phantom was used to simulate patient skin. Elekta TPS Oncentra Brachy was used for planning. TLDs were calibrated to Ir-192 through an indirect method of linear interpolation between calibration factors (CFs) measured for 250 kV X-rays, Cesium-137, and Cobalt-60. Subsequently, plans were designed and delivered to test the reproducibility of the irradiation set-up and to make comparisons between planned and delivered dose. The obtained CF for Ir-192 was (4.96 ± 0.25) μC/Gy. Deviations between measured and TPS calculated doses for multi-catheter treatment configuration ranged from -8.4% to 13.3% with an average of 0.6%. TLDs could be included in clinical practice for QA in skin BT with a customized flap applicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manna
- Department of Physics “E. Pancini”, Federico II University, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Centro Servizi Metrologici e Tecnologici Avanzati, Federico II University, 80146 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariagabriella Pugliese
- Department of Physics “E. Pancini”, Federico II University, 80126 Naples, Italy
- National Institute of Nuclear Physics, Section of Naples, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Buonanno
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Gherardi
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Eva Iannacone
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Verde
- Department of Physics “E. Pancini”, Federico II University, 80126 Naples, Italy
- National Institute of Nuclear Physics, Section of Naples, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Cecilia Arrichiello
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
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12
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Dose Distribution of High Dose-Rate and Low Dose-Rate Prostate Brachytherapy at Different Intervals-Impact of a Hydrogel Spacer and Prostate Volume. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051396. [PMID: 36900188 PMCID: PMC10000179 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to compare the dose distribution in permanent low-dose-rate brachytherapy (LDR-BT) and high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT), specifically focusing on the impact of a spacer and prostate volume. The relative dose distribution of 102 LDR-BT patients (prescription dose 145 Gy) at different intervals was compared with the dose distribution of 105 HDR-BT patients (232 HDR-BT fractions with prescription doses of 9 Gy, n = 151, or 11.5 Gy, n = 81). A hydrogel spacer (10 mL) was only injected before HDR-BT. For the analysis of dose coverage outside the prostate, a 5 mm margin was added to the prostate volume (PV+). Prostate V100 and D90 of HDR-BT and LDR-BT at different intervals were comparable. HDR-BT was characterized by a considerably more homogenous dose distribution and lower doses to the urethra. The minimum dose in 90% of PV+ was higher for larger prostates. As a consequence of the hydrogel spacer in HDR-BT patients, the intraoperative dose at the rectum was considerably lower, especially in smaller prostates. However, prostate volume dose coverage was not improved. The dosimetric results well explain clinical differences between these techniques reported in the literature review, specifically comparable tumor control, higher acute urinary toxicity rates in LDR-BT in comparison to HDR-BT, decreased rectal toxicity after spacer placement, and improved tumor control after HDR-BT in larger prostate volumes.
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13
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Cell-In-Cell Structures in Early Breast Cancer Are Prognostically Valuable. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010081. [PMID: 36611874 PMCID: PMC9818278 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-in-cell (CIC) structures in breast cancer have so far been studied in a small inhomogeneous patient population, suggesting the prognostic importance of CIC. In the present study, we focused on CIC in early hormone-sensitive breast cancer. With in vitro co-culture experiments, we compared the homotypic phagocytic capacity of two breast cancer cell lines to that of primary human fibroblasts. Afterward, we studied 601 tissue specimens from 147 patients participating in an institutional accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) phase II trial. Both breast cancer cell lines performed non-professional phagocytosis at a higher rate than primary human fibroblasts. In this study cohort, 93.2% of the patients had T1 tumours, and 6.8% had T2 tumours. CIC was found in 61.2% of the patients, with a CIC rate ranging from <1/mm2 to 556.5/mm2 with a mean of 30.9/mm2 ± 68.4/mm2. CIC structures were prognostically favourable for local recurrence-free survival and disease-free survival. Regarding metastasis-free survival, CIC-positive patients had an unfavourable prognosis. Subgroup analysis indicated a correlation between a high proliferation index and high CIC rates. CIC had the highest prognostic value in young breast cancer patients (p = 0.004). With this study, we provide further evidence of CIC as a prognostic marker in breast cancer.
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Chaudhary P, Shukla SK, Suman S. Editorial: Multifaceted Approaches Combining Low or High LET Radiation and Pharmacological Interventions in Cancer and Radioprotection: From Bench to Bedside. Front Oncol 2022; 12:880607. [PMID: 35419286 PMCID: PMC8995526 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.880607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Chaudhary
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Sandeep Kumar Shukla
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences, Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Delhi, India
| | - Shubhankar Suman
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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15
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Lara-Velazquez M, Mehkri Y, Panther E, Hernandez J, Rao D, Fiester P, Makary R, Rutenberg M, Tavanaiepour D, Rahmathulla G. Current Advances in the Management of Adult Craniopharyngiomas. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:1645-1671. [PMID: 35323338 PMCID: PMC8946973 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29030138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) are slow growing, histologically benign intracranial tumors located in the sellar–suprasellar region. Although known to have low mortality, their location and relationship to the adjacent neural structures results in patients having significant neurologic, endocrine, and visual comorbidities. The invasive nature of this tumor makes complete resection a challenge and contributes to its recurrence. Additionally, these tumors are bimodally distributed, being treated with surgery, and are followed by other adjuncts, such as focused radiation therapy, e.g., Gamma knife. Advances in surgical techniques, imaging tools, and instrumentations have resulted in the evolution of surgery using endoscopic techniques, with residual components being treated by radiotherapy to target the residual tumor. Advances in molecular biology have elucidated the main pathways involved in tumor development and recurrence, but presently, no other treatments are offered to patients, besides surgery, radiation, and endocrine management, as the disease and tumor evolve. We review the contemporary management of these tumors, from the evolution of surgical treatments, utilizing standard open microscopic approaches to the more recent endoscopic surgery, and discuss the current recommendations for care of these patients. We discuss the developments in radiation therapy, such as radiosurgery, being used as treatment strategies for craniopharyngioma, highlighting their beneficial effects on tumor resections while decreasing the rates of adverse outcomes. We also outline the recent chemotherapy modalities, which help control tumor growth, and the immune landscape on craniopharyngiomas that allow the development of novel immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montserrat Lara-Velazquez
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Yusuf Mehkri
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Eric Panther
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Jairo Hernandez
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Department of Neuroradiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (D.R.); (P.F.)
| | - Peter Fiester
- Department of Neuroradiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (D.R.); (P.F.)
| | - Raafat Makary
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA;
| | - Michael Rutenberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA;
| | - Daryoush Tavanaiepour
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
| | - Gazanfar Rahmathulla
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, 653 8th St W., Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA; (M.L.-V.); (Y.M.); (E.P.); (J.H.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-904-244-1418; Fax: +1-888-939-4093
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