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The neutron therapy clinical programme at the National Accelerator Centre (NAC)
C E Stannard1, F J Vernimmen, D T Jones
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Bulletin Du Cancer. Radiotherapie : Journal De La Societe Francaise Du Cancer : Organe De La Societe Francaise De Radiotherapie Oncologique
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Neutron therapy shows promising local control and survival rates for various advanced cancers, including salivary gland, head and neck, and breast tumors. Further research is ongoing for soft tissue sarcomas and other rare malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Neutron therapy is an advanced radiation treatment modality.
- Its efficacy for various advanced cancers requires ongoing evaluation.
- The study focuses on a neutron therapy program utilizing a p(66)/Be isocentric unit.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the preliminary outcomes of neutron therapy for a range of advanced malignancies.
- To assess local control, survival, and response rates in different cancer types.
- To compare neutron therapy efficacy with conventional photon therapy where applicable.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 721 patients received neutron therapy between February 1989 and March 1995.
- Treatment involved a p(66)/Be isocentric unit.
- Outcomes analyzed include local control, survival, and complete response rates for specific tumor sites.
Main Results:
- Advanced salivary gland tumors: 3-year local control and survival of 57% and 79%.
- Advanced head and neck cancer: Improved local control with twice-daily neutron therapy vs. photon therapy.
- Locally advanced breast cancer: 68% and 83% local control with 17 and 19 Gy, respectively.
- Soft tissue sarcomas: 67% complete response for macroscopic residual or irresectable disease (<10 cm).
- Uterine sarcoma: 56% complete response with a median follow-up of 38 months.
- Advanced squamous carcinoma of the maxillary antrum: 2-year local control and survival of 44% and 38%.
- Advanced osteosarcomas and chondrosarcomas: 38% complete response rate.
Conclusions:
- Neutron therapy demonstrates significant potential for local control and survival in advanced cancers.
- Specific dose regimens show varying efficacy across different tumor types.
- Further investigation into neutron therapy's role in managing complex oncological cases is warranted.