Neutron brachytherapy is better than conventional radiotherapy in advanced cervical cancer.
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.
Maruyama
Y
Y
Kryscio
R
R
van Nagell
J R
JR
Yoneda
J
J
Donaldson
E
E
Hanson
M
M
Beach
J L
JL
Feola
J M
JM
Martin
A
A
Parker
C
C
D000206:Actuarial Analysis; D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy; D000368:Aged; D001918:Brachytherapy; D002142:Californium / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018288:Carcinoma, Small Cell / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy; D002588:Cesium Radioisotopes / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005214:Fast Neutrons; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D011832:Radiation Injuries; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000532:radiotherapy*
D002588:Cesium Radioisotopes; D002142:Californium