Neutron brachytherapy is better than conventional radiotherapy in advanced cervical cancer

Lancet. 1985 May 18;1(8438):1120-2. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(85)92430-4.

Abstract

Californium-252 (252Cf), a fast-neutron emitting radioisotope, was used for neutron brachytherapy (NT) of 82 patients with advanced (stage III and IV) cervical cancer. The results were compared with caesium-137 brachytherapy; both isotopes were given in combination with high-dose fractionated pelvic radiotherapy. In patients with stage IIIB disease (ie, tumour to the pelvic side-wall), 252Cf intracavitary therapy resulted in 54% 5-year survival compared with 12% in the caesium group. To be effective, Cf-NT must be given before external beam (photon) therapy.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Actuarial Analysis
  • Adenocarcinoma / mortality
  • Adenocarcinoma / radiotherapy
  • Aged
  • Brachytherapy*
  • Californium / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Small Cell / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / radiotherapy
  • Cesium Radioisotopes / therapeutic use
  • Fast Neutrons
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Radiation Injuries
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / mortality
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / radiotherapy*

Substances

  • Cesium Radioisotopes
  • Californium