Radiation Oncology (Oct 2012)

The clinical case for proton beam therapy

  • Foote Robert L,
  • Stafford Scott L,
  • Petersen Ivy A,
  • Pulido Jose S,
  • Clarke Michelle J,
  • Schild Steven E,
  • Garces Yolanda I,
  • Olivier Kenneth R,
  • Miller Robert C,
  • Haddock Michael G,
  • Yan Elizabeth,
  • Laack Nadia N,
  • Arndt Carola A S,
  • Buskirk Steven J,
  • Miller Vickie L,
  • Brent Christopher R,
  • Kruse Jon J,
  • Ezzell Gary A,
  • Herman Michael G,
  • Gunderson Leonard L,
  • Erlichman Charles,
  • Diasio Robert B

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-717X-7-174
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7, no. 1
p. 174

Abstract

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Abstract Over the past 20 years, several proton beam treatment programs have been implemented throughout the United States. Increasingly, the number of new programs under development is growing. Proton beam therapy has the potential for improving tumor control and survival through dose escalation. It also has potential for reducing harm to normal organs through dose reduction. However, proton beam therapy is more costly than conventional x-ray therapy. This increased cost may be offset by improved function, improved quality of life, and reduced costs related to treating the late effects of therapy. Clinical research opportunities are abundant to determine which patients will gain the most benefit from proton beam therapy. We review the clinical case for proton beam therapy. Summary sentence Proton beam therapy is a technically advanced and promising form of radiation therapy.

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