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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
08:34
Proton Therapy Delivery and Its Clinical Application in Select Solid Tumor Malignancies
Published on: February 6, 2019
Proton therapy in Spain: SEOR-SPROMP multidisciplinary recommendations developed through a RAND/UCLA consensus
Antonio José Conde-Moreno1, Felipe Ángel Calvo Manuel2, Patricia Diezhandino García3
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Universitari I Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain. conde_ant@gva.es.
Summary
Proton beam therapy (PBT) is appropriate for many cancer types, especially in pediatrics and complex cases. This consensus provides a framework to guide its use, aiming for equitable access and reduced practice variability.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Proton beam therapy (PBT) offers dosimetric and biological advantages over conventional radiotherapy.
- Clinical adoption of PBT is limited by accessibility, availability, and varied selection criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the appropriateness of PBT across diverse oncological scenarios.
- Establish updated guidelines for PBT utilization in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- A RAND/UCLA appropriateness consensus process involving 118 national specialists.
- 12 working groups rated 72 clinical statements on a 9-point Likert scale over two rounds.
Main Results:
- Consensus was reached on 61 statements after two rounds.
- 53 statements were deemed appropriate for PBT, 6 uncertain, and 2 inappropriate.
- Appropriate indications include pediatric oncology, skull base tumors, sarcomas, head and neck cancers, and re-irradiation.
Conclusions:
- This national consensus offers a structured framework for appropriate PBT use.
- Recommendations aim to standardize clinical practice, improve access, and promote patient-centered PBT implementation.
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