title: Boron neutron capture enhancement of fast neutron radiotherapy utilizing a moderated fast neutron beam.
abstract: An investigation of the therapeutic potential of boron neutron capture (BNC) enhancement of fast neutron therapy utilizing the Harper University Hospital superconducting cyclotron-produced d(48.5)+Be fast neutron therapy beam is presented. A technique for modification of the fast neutron beam to increase the BNC enhancement is presented along with an evaluation of the effects of beam moderation on the biological effectiveness of the absorbed dose. Characteristics of the photon, neutron, and boron neutron capture components of the absorbed dose are presented. Results demonstrate the possibility of therapeutic gains greater than 50% over conventional fast neutron therapy at depths required to treat brain lesions. This enhancement is estimated assuming currently achievable boron concentrations, and is more than adequate to provide a therapeutic window for the effective treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme without prohibitive toxicity to the normal brain.
authors.affiliation: Gershenson Radiation Oncology Center, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Harper University Hospital and Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA. burmeist@kci.wayne.edu
authors.forename: Jay
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Burmeister
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Yudelev
authors.forename: Chandrasekhar
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Kota
authors.forename: Richard L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Maughan
mesh_terms: D001822:Body Burden; D016754:Boron Neutron Capture Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005909:Glioblastoma / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009502:Neutrons / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011874:Radiometry / Q000379:methods*; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D011880:Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D012062:Relative Biological Effectiveness