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Reirradiation for recurrent craniopharyngioma
Sarah J Foran1, Normand Laperriere2, Kim Edelstein2
1University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Canada.
Advances in Radiation Oncology
|December 11, 2020
Summary
Reirradiation for recurrent craniopharyngioma showed promising results. This study found that fractionated radiation therapy may be a safe and effective option for disease control and vision preservation in select patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Recurrent craniopharyngioma poses treatment challenges due to potential visual and endocrine toxicities.
- Reirradiation is infrequently used for recurrent craniopharyngioma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of fractionated radiation therapy as reirradiation for recurrent craniopharyngioma.
- To assess outcomes including disease control, visual function, and endocrine status.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients with craniopharyngioma treated with two courses of fractionated radiation therapy.
- Analysis of electronic medical and radiation therapy records.
Main Results:
- Four eligible patients with recurrent craniopharyngioma were identified.
- Median follow-up was 33 months post-reirradiation; 3 patients achieved disease control.
- Vision stabilized or improved in 3 patients; no new endocrine toxicities were observed in most patients.
Conclusions:
- Reirradiation with fractionated radiation therapy may be a safe and effective option for select patients with recurrent, refractory craniopharyngioma.
- Further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up is needed to confirm these findings.
