Is a fourth year necessary? The need for subspecialization: total body irradiation

Although the number of radiation oncologists performing TBI procedures has increased in the last decade and there exists a significant body of unique medical knowledge pertinent to its use, there is little cohesiveness as a discipline within radiation oncology. There are no specific societies, journals, and no hospital divisions devoted to this area. Therefore, I content that subspecialty accreditation is not justified at this time. However, there are many fascinating scientific questions at the cellular, tissue, and clinical level which remain to be answered with regard to TBI, making it an exciting area for both laboratory and clinical research. Specialized training should be offered by institutions with expertise as a possible research year for residents and/or fellows who have a particular interest in pursuing an academic career along these lines.