title: Clinical Benefits of Proton Beam Therapy for Tumors of the Skull Base.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The unique radiobiological properties of protons have been understood for many years. In addition, many of the clinical benefits of radiotherapy were first noted in tumors involving the skull base. More public attention has been given to proton beam therapy due to the increasing number of centers now in operation or in the planning stages for offering this treatment option.
  
  
  METHODS
  We reviewed the physical properties of protons and the clinical studies performed to justify their use in the management of skull-base tumors and determine the benefits of proton beam therapy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Published reports suggest a benefit to proton beam therapy for use in tumors of the skull base, including craniopharyngiomas, chordomas, skull-base sarcomas, and unresectable meningiomas.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Use of proton beam therapy may be beneficial in select patients. Surgical and medical oncologists should have a general understanding of such cases to facilitate their appropriate referral.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiation Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Peter.Johnstone@Moffitt.org.
authors.forename: Kamran A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Ahmed
authors.forename: Stephanie K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Demetriou
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: McDonald
authors.forename: Peter As
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Johnstone
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D061766:Proton Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D019292:Skull Base Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*