MR-guided laser irradiation of recurrent glioblastomas.
We treated two patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme using Nd:YAG laser irradiation in the framework of a salvage therapy. The underlying concept is to achieve cytoreduction by partial coagulation of the tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) follow-up examinations revealed a volume reduction of the laser-irradiated areas, while the untreated parts of the tumor exhibited a progression. The survival time after the diagnosis of the recurrence was 16 and 20 months, respectively, which is substantially (about four times) longer than the natural history of the disease would suggest. In conclusion, cytoreduction by laser irradiation may be a promising option for patients suffering from recurrent glioblastoma multiforme. Future work should optimize the therapeutic regimen and evaluate this treatment approach in controlled clinical trials.
Schwarzmaier
Hans-Joachim
HJ
Department of Medical Technology, Klinikum Krefeld, University of Düsseldorf Medical School, Krefeld, Germany. schwarzmaier@klinikum-krefeld.de
Eickmeyer
Frank
F
von Tempelhoff
Wernholt
W
Fiedler
Volkhard Ulrich
VU
Niehoff
Hendrik
H
Ulrich
Slif Dagobert
SD
Ulrich
Frank
F
D000368:Aged; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D005909:Glioblastoma / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000379:methods; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D015996:Survival Rate