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Endocurietherapy in pediatric oncology
J M Cherlow1, A M Syed, A Puthawala
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Medical Center, Long Beach, CA 90801.
The American Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Endocurietherapy (brachytherapy) effectively treated pediatric solid tumors, with most patients achieving no evidence of disease. This radiation technique minimized side effects on normal tissues.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Endocurietherapy, or brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive sources near tumors.
- It delivers targeted radiation, sparing healthy tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of endocurietherapy in pediatric patients with solid tumors.
- To assess outcomes for primary, recurrent, and metastatic disease.
Main Methods:
- 11 pediatric patients (sarcomas, carcinoma, Wilms') received endocurietherapy.
- Temporary afterloaded implants with Iridium-192 seeds delivered 4,000 cGy.
- Multimodality treatment approach was utilized.
Main Results:
- Six patients (four primary, two recurrent) achieved no evidence of disease (NED) with median 38-month follow-up.
- One patient with metastasis had local control.
- Outcomes included NED, alive with disease, and died of disease.
Conclusions:
- Endocurietherapy is a viable treatment for pediatric solid tumors.
- The technique offers localized radiation with manageable outcomes.
- Special considerations for pediatric patients included gonadal shielding and psychosocial support.