Neutron radiotherapy for malignant gliomas

Am J Clin Oncol. 1989 Aug;12(4):311-5. doi: 10.1097/00000421-198908000-00007.

Abstract

Neutron radiotherapy has been used for patients with malignant gliomas for over a decade; a substantial number of patients have been treated to date. Pathologic analysis of surgical specimens posttreatment and autopsy specimens have documented an increased antitumor effect of neutrons against malignant gliomas, compared with photon irradiation. However, results of neutron trials to date have not shown a survival advantage over conventional radiotherapy for these patients. This article reviews current surgical, radiotherapeutic, and chemotherapeutic approaches to these tumors, the rationale for neutron treatment, and the results of trials of neutron radiotherapy conducted to date for patients with malignant gliomas.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / mortality
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Fast Neutrons* / therapeutic use
  • Glioblastoma / mortality
  • Glioblastoma / radiotherapy
  • Glioma / mortality
  • Glioma / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Neutrons* / therapeutic use
  • Postoperative Care
  • Radiotherapy Dosage