Development of a method for treating lower-eyelid carcinomas using superficial high dose rate brachytherapy

Area of Science:

• Radiation Oncology
• Dermatologic Surgery
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are common skin cancers.
• Lower eyelid BCC/SCC present treatment challenges due to anatomical location.
• Current treatments may involve complex surgical reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a method for superficial high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy for lower eyelid BCC and SCC.
• To overcome anatomical difficulties in treating these lower eyelid tumors.
• To establish a clinically viable non-surgical treatment option.

Main Methods:

• Development of a superficial catheter delivery method for HDR brachytherapy.
• Utilized a head phantom with clinically-realistic BCC/SCC treatment areas.
• Evaluated different catheter arrangements, bolus configurations, and dosimetric uncertainties (e.g., air gaps).
• Treatment planning with iridium-192 source using Oncentra Brachy software.
• Dose distribution analysis using radiochromic film.

Main Results:

• The proposed superficial HDR brachytherapy method was demonstrated to be clinically viable.
• Effective treatment of simulated BCC and SCC in the lower eyelid region was achieved.
• Dosimetric uncertainties were identified and successfully mitigated.

Conclusions:

• Superficial HDR brachytherapy is a feasible approach for treating lower eyelid BCC and SCC.
• This technique offers a non-surgical alternative, addressing anatomical challenges.
• The method shows promise for improving patient outcomes in treating these specific skin cancers.