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Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are essential tools in radiation oncology. In Spain, the use of these techniques continues to grow as older linear accelerators (linacs) are replaced with modern equipment. However, little is known about inter-centre variability in prescription and dose heterogeneity limits. Consequently, the SBRT-Spanish Task Group (SBRT-SG) of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (SEOR) has undertaken an initiative to assess prescription and homogeneity in SRS/SBRT treatment. In the present study, we surveyed radiation oncology (RO) departments to obtain a realistic overview of prescription methods used for SBRT and SRS treatment in Spain. A brief survey was developed and sent to 34 RO departments in Spain, mostly those who are members of the SEOR SBRT-SG. The survey contained seven questions about the specific prescription mode, dose distribution heterogeneity limits, prescription strategies according to SRS/SBRT type, and the use of IMRT–VMAT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy–Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy). Responses were received from 29 centres. Most centres (59%) used the prescription criteria D95% ≥ 100%. Accepted dose heterogeneity was wide, ranging from 107 to 200%. Most centres used IMRT–VMAT (93%). This survey about SRS/SBRT prescription and dose heterogeneity has evidenced substantial inter-centre variability in prescription criteria, particularly for intended and accepted dose heterogeneity. These differences could potentially influence the mean planning target volume dose and its correlation with treatment outcomes. The findings presented here will be used by the SEOR SBRT-SG to develop recommendations for SRS/SBRT dose prescription and heterogeneity.

Background: Utilization of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases (BM) has become the technique of choice as opposed to whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT). The aim of this work is to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits in terms of normal tissue (NT) and dose escalation of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) in SRS metastasis treatment. A VMAT optimization procedure has therefore been developed for internal dose scaling which minimizes planner dependence. Materials and methods: Five patient-plans incorporating treatment with frame-based SRS with dynamic conformal arc technique (DA) were re-planned for VMAT. The lesions selected were between 4–6 cm 3 . The same geometry used in the DA plans was maintained for the VMAT cases. A VMAT planning procedure was performed attempting to scale the dose in inner auxiliary volumes, and to explore the potential for dose scaling with this technique. Comparison of dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters were obtained. Results: VMAT allows a superior NT sparing plus conformity and dose scaling using the auxiliary volumes. The VMAT results were significantly superior in NT sparing, improving both the V 10 and V 12 values in all cases, with a 2–3 cm 3 saving. In addition, VMAT improves the dose coverage D 95 by about 0.5 Gy. The objective of dose escalation was achieved with VMAT with an increment of the Dmean and the Dmedian of about 2 Gy. Conclusions: This work shows a benefit of VMAT in SRS treatment with significant NT sparing. A VMAT optimization procedure, based on auxiliary inner volumes, has been developed, enabling internal dose escalation.

Today, patient management generally requires a multidisciplinary approach. However, due to the growing knowledge base and increasing complexity of Medicine, clinical practice has become even more specialised. Radiation oncology is not immune to this trend towards subspecialisation, which is particularly evident in ablative radiotherapy techniques that require high dose fractions, such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). The aim of the present report is to establish the position of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (SEOR), in collaboration with the Spanish Society of Medical Physics (SEFM), with regard to the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals involved in performing SRS and SBRT. The need for this white paper is motivated due to the recent changes in Spanish Legislation (Royal Decree [RD] 601/2019, October 18, 2019) governing the use and optimization of radiotherapy and radiological protection for medical exposure to ionizing radiation (article 11, points 4 and 5) [1 ], which states: “In radiotherapy treatment units, the specialist in Radiation Oncology will be responsible for determining the correct treatment indication, selecting target volumes, determining the clinical radiation parameters for each volume, directing and supervising treatment, preparing the final clinical report, reporting treatment outcomes, and monitoring the patient’s clinical course.” Consequently, the SEOR and SEFM have jointly prepared the present document to establish the roles and responsibilities for the specialists—radiation oncologists (RO), medical physicists (MP), and related staff —involved in treatments with ionizing radiation. We believe that it is important to clearly establish the responsibilities of each professional group and to clearly establish the professional competencies at each stage of the radiotherapy process.

Estimating post-treatment ambulatory status can improve treatment personalization of patients irradiated for malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC). A new clinical score was developed from data of 283 patients treated with radiotherapy alone in prospective trials. Radiotherapy regimen, age, gender, tumor type, interval from tumor diagnosis to MSCC, number of affected vertebrae, other bone metastases, visceral metastases, time developing motor deficits, ambulatory status, performance score, sensory deficits, and sphincter dysfunction were evaluated. For factors with prognostic relevance in the multivariable logistic regression model after backward stepwise variable selection, scoring points were calculated (post-radiotherapy ambulatory rate in % divided by 10) and added for each patient. Four factors (primary tumor type, sensory deficits, sphincter dysfunction, ambulatory status) were used for the instrument that includes three prognostic groups (17–21, 22–31, and 32–37 points). Post-radiotherapy ambulatory rates were 10%, 65%, and 97%, respectively, and 2-year local control rates were 100%, 75%, and 88%, respectively. Positive predictive values to predict ambulatory and non-ambulatory status were 97% and 90% using the new score, and 98% and 79% using the previous instrument. The new score appeared more precise in predicting non-ambulatory status. Since patients with 32–37 points had high post-radiotherapy ambulatory and local control rates, they may not require surgery.

Background In a palliative situation like metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC), overall treatment time of radiotherapy should be as short as possible. This study compared 5 × 5 Gy in 1 week to 10 × 3 Gy in 2 weeks in a prospective cohort. Methods Forty patients receiving 5 × 5 Gy in a phase II trial were matched 1:2 to 213 patients receiving 10 × 3 Gy in two previous prospective studies for tumor type, ambulatory status, time developing motor deficits, interval between tumor diagnosis and MSCC and visceral metastases. These factors were consistent in all three patients (triple) used for each 1:2 matching. Groups were compared for local progression-free survival (LPFS), motor function, ambulatory status, and overall survival (OS). Results After matching, 32 triples remained for analyses (N = 96 in total). Six-month LPFS-rates were 94% after 5 × 5 Gy and 87% after 10 × 3 Gy (p = 0.36), 6-month OS-rates 43% and 35% (p = 0.74). Improvement of motor function was achieved in 59% and 34% of patients (p = 0.028); overall response rates (improvement or no further progression of motor deficits) were 94% and 89% (p = 0.71). Post-treatment ambulatory rates were 81% after 5 × 5 Gy and 85% after 10 × 3 Gy (p = 0.61). Of non-ambulatory patients, 50% (6/12) and 46% (11/24) regained the ability to walk (p = 1.00). Conclusions 5 × 5 Gy in 1 week appeared similarly effective as 10 × 3 Gy in 2 weeks. These results may not be applicable to long-term survivors and should be confirmed in a randomized trial directly comparing 5 × 5 Gy and 10 × 3 Gy. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT03070431. Registered 27 February 2017.

Purpose: Retrospective, single-institution analysis of clinical outcomes and treatment-related toxicity in patients treated with salvage I-125 low-dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy (BT) for locally-recurrent prostate cancer after radiotherapy. Materials and methods: Between 2008 and 2018, 30 patients with biopsy-confirmed prostate cancer recurrence underwent salvage treatment with 1-125 LDR-BT. Of these 30 patients, 14 were previously treated with primary external beam radiotherapy (EBRT; median dose, 73 Gy) and 16 with primary I-125 LDR-BT (145 Gy and 160 Gy in 14 and 2 cases, respectively). At seed implantation, the mean age was 75.8 years, with a median Gleason score of 7 and pre-salvage PSA of

Purpose Peer review has been proposed as a strategy to ensure patient safety and plan quality in radiation oncology. Despite its potential benefits, barriers commonly exist to its optimal implementation in daily clinical routine. Our purpose is to analyze peer-review process at our institution. Methods and materials Based on our group peer-review process, we quantified the rate of plan changes, time and resources needed for this process. Prospectively, data on cases presented at our institutional peer-review conference attended by physicians, resident physicians and physicists were collected. Items such as time to present per case, type of patient (adult or pediatric), treatment intent, dose, aimed technique, disease location and receipt of previous radiation were gathered. Cases were then analyzed to determine the rate of major change, minor change and plan rejection after presentation as well as the median time per session. Results Over a period of 4 weeks, 148 cases were reviewed. Median of attendants was six physicians, three in-training-physicians and one physicist. Median time per session was 38 (4–72) minutes. 59.5% of cases presented in 1–4 min, 32.4% in 5–9 min and 8.1% in ≥ 10 min. 79.1% of cases were accepted without changes, 11.5% with minor changes, 6% with major changes and 3.4% were rejected with indication of new presentation. Most frequent reason of change was contouring corrections (53.8%) followed by dose or fractionation (26.9%). Conclusion Everyday group consensus peer review is an efficient manner to recollect clinical and technical data of cases presented to ensure quality radiation care before initiation of treatment as well as ensuring department quality in a feedback team environment. This model is feasible within the normal operation of every radiation oncology Department.

Aim To evaluate whether positron-emission tomography/computed tomography with 68Ga-PSMA (68Ga-PSMA PET/CT) influences the therapeutic management of patients with primary or recurrent prostate cancer (PCa). Background Although 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT is one of the best options for staging or restaging patients with PCa, its availability is still very limited in Spain. The present study reports the results of the first group of patients in Spain who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging. Materials and methods All patients (n = 27) with a histological diagnosis of PCa who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT prior to the definitive treatment decision at the only centre with this technology in Spain during 2017–2018 were included. Two nuclear medicine physicians and a radiologist reviewed the imaging studies. The clinical impact was assessed from a theoretical perspective, based on the treatment that would have been applied if no data from the 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT were available. Results Most patients (n = 26; 96%) had persistent disease or biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, or combined treatment. One patient underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging to stage high-risk PCa. Overall, 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT was positive in 19 patients (70.4%). In 68.75% of these patients, none of the other imaging tests—MRI, CT, or bone scans—performed prior to the 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT were able to detect the presence of cancerous lesions. Overall, the findings of the 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT led to a modification of the therapeutic approach in 62.96% of the patients in the study. Conclusions 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT alters the therapeutic approach in a substantial proportion of patients with PCa. Sin financiación No data JCR 2020 0.367 SJR (2020) Q3, 253/354 Oncology No data IDR 2020 UEM

Objective: To investigate precision radiation therapy for metastatic spinal cord compression and compare it to conventional radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: In a multicenter phase 2 study, 40 patients received 5 Gy x 5 fractions of precision radiation therapy (38 volume modulated arc therapy, 2 intensity modulated radiation therapy) for metastatic spinal cord compression and were evaluated for local progression-free survival (LPFS), motor function, ambulatory status, sensory function, sphincter dysfunction, pain, distress, overall survival (OS), and toxicity. Maximum spinal cord dose was 101.5% (myelopathy risk

A survival score was created in 2008 to improve treatment personalization of patients irradiated for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC). Since then, targeted therapies improved survival of patients with cancer, which may decrease this score's predictive value. A new score appears necessary.Two hundred sixty-four patients receiving radiation therapy without surgery in prospective trials (2010-2021) were included. A dose-fractionation regimen plus 15 factors were analyzed: age, sex, tumor type, interval tumor diagnosis to MESCC, MESCC sites, affected vertebrae, additional bone lesions, other distant lesions (yes or no), number of organs involved by metastases, time developing motor deficits, ambulatory status, sensory function, sphincter dysfunction, pain, and distress. Six-month survival rates (%) of independent prognostic factors were divided by 10 and summed for each patient. The score was compared with the previous tool for predicting death ≤6 months and survival ≥6 months.In a multivariate analysis, tumor type (P = .001), other distant lesions (P.001), and ambulatory status (P.001) were significant. Based on 6-month survival rates, 4 groups (8-9, 10-13, 14-17, and 18 points) were created with 6-month survival rates of 12.8%, 34.7%, 62.8%, and 90.0%, respectively (version A). For version B, "other distant lesions" was replaced by "number of organs involved by metastases." Version B included 4 groups (8-10, 11-14, 15-16, and 17 points) with 6-month survival rates of 11.1%, 42.0%, 68.6%, and 91.7%, respectively. Positive predictive values to predict death ≤6 months were 87.2% (version A) and 88.9% (version B) versus 76.6% (3 groups) and 84.6% (5 groups) for the previous score. Positive predictive values to predict survival ≥6 months were 90.0% and 91.7% versus 59.0% and 64.3%.Both versions of the new score were more precise than the previous tool. Version B appears slightly superior to version A but requires more extensive diagnostic staging that may not be readily available when emergently treating.

The treatment for nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) is a highly unmet medical need. The classic treatment approach for these patients—androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone—until metastatic progression is now considered suboptimal. Several randomized phase III clinical trials have demonstrated significant clinical benefits—including significantly better overall survival (OS)—for treatments that combine ADT with apalutamide, enzalutamide, and darolutamide. As a result, these approaches are now included in treatment guidelines and are considered a standard of care. In the present article, we discuss the changing landscape of the management of patients with nmCRPC.

To identify prognostic factors and create a survival score to facilitate individualized care of patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) from small-cell lung cancer (SCLC).Radiation regimen plus 9 factors were retrospectively evaluated in 120 patients irradiated for MSCC from SCLC for overall response, improvement of motor deficits, postradiotherapy ambulatory status, local control of MSCC, and overall survival (OS). Factors included age, interval diagnosis of SCLC to radiotherapy (RT) of MSCC, visceral metastases, further bone metastases, gender, time developing motor deficits, pre-RT ambulatory status, number of affected vertebrae, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS).Improvement of motor deficits showed significant associations with ECOG PS 1-2 (P = .018); time developing motor deficits achieved borderline significance (P = .059). Post-RT ambulatory status was significantly associated with slower development of motor dysfunction (P = .003), ambulatory status (P .001), and ECOG PS 1-2 (P .001). No factor was significantly associated with overall response and local control. On multivariate analysis, OS was significantly associated with interval from SCLC diagnosis to RT of MSCC (P = .004), visceral metastases (P .001), ambulatory status (P = .002), and ECOG PS (P = .002). For the survival score, 6-month OS rates related to each of these factors were divided by 10. Patient scores were obtained by adding these factors' scores. Three groups were defined (5, 7-13, and 15-17 points) with 6-month OS rates of 0, 18%, and 77%, respectively (P .001).Predictors of various outcomes were identified and a survival score was created that can support physicians aiming to create personalized treatments to patients with MSCC from SCLC.

Optimal local treatment for nodal oligorecurrent prostate cancer is unknown. The randomized phase 2 PEACE V-STORM trial will explore the best treatment approach in this setting. Early results on the acute toxicity profile are projected to be published in quarter 3, 2021. ispartof: EUROPEAN UROLOGY FOCUS vol:7 issue:2 pages:241-244 ispartof: location:Netherlands status: published

Background Radiotherapy of head-and-neck cancer can be associated with significant toxicities including dermatitis and oral mucositis. Severe toxicities may require interruptions of the radiation treatment associated with impairment of the patients’ prognoses. This study will investigate whether the addition of a reminder app to standard care can reduce dermatitis and oral mucositis rates during radiotherapy in these patients. Methods This randomized trial compares standard care supported by a reminder app (Arm A) to standard care alone (Arm B) with respect to grade ≥ 2 radiation dermatitis and oral mucositis at 60 Gy of radiotherapy, the minimum planned dose for patients receiving definitive or adjuvant radiotherapy for locally advanced head- and-neck cancer. Moreover, radiation-induced dermatitis and oral mucositis grade ≥ 3 at 60 Gy and both grade ≥ 2 and grade ≥ 3 at the end of radiation treatment (EOT) will be evaluated, as well as quality of life and pain. According to sample size calculations, 80 patients are required per arm within the full analysis set. Taking into account that 5% of patients will not qualify for full analysis set, 168 patients should be randomized. The impact of the reminder app will be considered clinically relevant, if the rates of grade ≥ 2 radiation dermatitis (primary endpoint) and oral mucositis (secondary endpoint) can be reduced by 20%. Discussion If the addition of a reminder app to standard care will lead to a significant reduction of radiation dermatitis and oral mucositis, it could become a helpful tool for patients with head-and-neck cancer during radiotherapy. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04110977). Registered on September 27, 2019. First patient is planned to be included in December 2019.

Purpose/Objective(s) SBRT-SG 05 is a collaborative (SBRT-SG, GICOR and SEOR) prospective multicenter phase II trial testing SBRT and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in oligorecurrent prostate cancer patients. Materials/Methods Prostate cancer patients (hormone-sensitive or castration-resistant) in an oligorecurrent stage defined as less than 5 bone or lymph node metastases by Choline PET-CT or/and WB-DWI-MRI, after primary treatment, were assigned to receive ADT and SBRT (Vertebral metastases: 1 × 16-18Gy or 3 × 8-9Gy; lymph node metastases: 3 × 10-11 Gy or 6 × 7,5Gy; non-spinal bone metastases: 1 × 16Gy or 3 × 10Gy). Inclusion criteria included: more than 1 year from primary treatment to biochemical recurrence and PSA doubling time greater than 2 months. A minimum of 24 months of LhRh analogues from the time of the enrollment was required and concomitant treatment with chemotherapy, abiraterone or enzalutamide was not allowed. Oncologic outcomes defined by PCWG3 were evaluated separately for hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant patients, using Kaplan-Meier competing risks, and Cox regression. Toxicity was prospectively evaluated according to CTCAE.v4 criteria. Results From 07/2014 to 12/2019, 81 patients from 14 Spanish centers were recruited with a total of 117 oligometastases treated, 67 in lymph nodes, 43 in non-‐spinal bones and 7 in spinal bones. 14 patients were recruited in a castration-resistance status. Median follow-up was 41 months, (range 18 - 72 months). 13 hormone-sensitive (19,4%) and 8 castration-resistant (57,1%) oligorecurrent patients presented distant disease progression. Median distant progression-free survival (DPFS) was 54,2 months (IC95% = 48,2 – 60,3). 18 of the patients who progressed (85,7%) were treated with SBRT for the new lesions, 7 of them presented a subsequent distant progression (38,9%), with a median of second DPFS of 24,4 months (95% CI = 23,7 – 25,2). In the castration resistant subgroup, median DPFS was 33,5 months (range 14,8 – 52,1), 42,9% of them were free from distant disease progression at last follow-up, without the need to start second generation hormonal treatment. Tolerance and toxicity profiles were excellent, none of the patients developed toxicity ≥G3 or symptoms related to local progression of the disease. Conclusion Combination of SBRT and ADT is a safe treatment approach with favorable clinical outcomes for hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer patients. Validation studies are needed in castration-resistant patients. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02192788

Purpose: To retrospectively evaluate biochemical control and toxicity in patients who underwent 1251 seed brachytherapy (BT) for intermediate-risk prostate cancer (PCa). Materials and Methods: Between January 2004-December 2014, 395 patients with intermediate-risk PCa underwent 1251 BT. Of these, 117 underwent preoperative planning (PP; 145 Gy) and 278 real-time intraoperative preplanning (IoP ; 160 Gy). All patients were followed for >= 6 months (> 5 years in 48% of patients and > 7 years in 13%). Median follow-up was 59 months. Results: Biochemical relapse-free survival (BRFS) rates at 5 and 8 years were, respectively, 91.7% and 82.1%. By treatment group, the corresponding BRFS rates were 93.5% and 90% for IoP and 89% and 76.8% for PP. The maximum dose to the urethra remained unchanged (217 Gy) despite the dose escalation (from 145 to 160 Gy), without any significant increase in treatment-related toxicity (p = 0.13). Overall toxicity outcomes in the series were excellent, with only 3 cases (0.76%) of grade 3 genitourinary toxicity. Conclusion: The real-time intraoperative planning technique at 160 Gy yields better biochemical controls than the preoperative planning technique at 145 Gy. Dose escalation did not increase urinary toxicity. The excellent results obtained with the IoP BT technique support its use as the first treatment option in this patient population. (C) 2020 Greater Poland Cancer Centre. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Background: Radiotherapy of head-and-neck cancer can be associated with significant toxicities including dermatitis and oral mucositis. Severe toxicities may require interruptions of the radiation treatment associated with impairment of the patients’ prognoses. This study will investigate whether the addition of a reminder app to standard care can reduce dermatitis and oral mucositis rates during radiotherapy in these patients. Methods: This randomized trial compares standard care supported by a reminder app (Arm A) to standard care alone (Arm B) with respect to grade ≥2 radiation dermatitis and oral mucositis at 60Gy of radiotherapy, the minimum planned dose for patients receiving definitive or adjuvant radiotherapy for locally advanced head-and-neck cancer. Moreover, radiation-induced dermatitis and oral mucositis grade ≥3 at 60Gy and both grade ≥2 and grade ≥3 at the end of radiation treatment (EOT) will be evaluated, as well as quality of life and pain. According to sample size calculations, 80 patients are required per arm within the full analysis set. Taking into account that 5% of patients will not qualify for full analysis set, 168 patients should be randomized. The impact of the reminder app will be considered clinically relevant, if the rates of grade ≥2 radiation dermatitis (primary endpoint) and oral mucositis (secondary endpoint) can be reduced by 20%. Discussion: If the addition of a reminder app to standard care will lead to a significant reduction of radiation dermatitis and oral mucositis, it could become a helpful tool for head-and-neck cancer patients during radiotherapy. Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04110977; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04110977). Registered on 27th of September, 2019. First patient is planned to be included in December 2019.

Background Patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) and favorable survival prognoses can benefit from radiation doses greater than 30Gy in 10 fractions in terms of improved local progression-free survival (LPFS) and overall survival (OS). Methods/design This prospective study mainly investigates LPFS after precision radiotherapy (volumetric modulated arc therapy or stereotactic body radiotherapy) with 18 × 2.33Gy in 3.5 weeks. LPFS is defined as freedom from progression of motor deficits during radiotherapy and an in-field recurrence of MSCC following radiotherapy. The maximum relative dose allowed to the spinal cord is 101.5% of the prescribed dose, resulting in an equivalent dose in 2Gy-fractions (EQD2) for radiation myelopathy is 45.5Gy, which is below the tolerance dose of 50Gy according to the Quantitative Analyses of Normal Tissue Effects in the Clinic (QUANTEC). The EQD2 of this regimen for tumor cell kill is 43.1Gy, which is 33% higher than for 30Gy in 10 fractions (EQD2 = 32.5Gy). Primary endpoint is LPFS at 12 months after radiotherapy. Secondary endpoints include the effect of 18 × 2.33Gy on motor function, ambulatory status, sensory function, sphincter dysfunction, LPFS at other follow-up times, overall survival, pain relief, relief of distress and toxicity. Follow-up visits for all endpoints will be performed directly and at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after radiotherapy. A total of 65 patients are required for the prospective part of the study. These patients will be compared to a historical control group of at least 235 patients receiving conventional radiotherapy with 10x3Gy in 2 weeks. Discussion If precision radiotherapy with 18 × 2.33Gy results in significantly better LPFS than 10x3Gy of conventional radiotherapy, this regimen should be strongly considered for patients with MSCC and favorable survival prognoses. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04043156. Registered 30-07-2019.

To compare 4 Gy × 5 (1 week) to 3 Gy × 10 (2 weeks) in relieving pain and distress in patients with metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC).The randomized SCORE-2 trial compared 4 Gy × 5 (n = 101) to 3 Gy × 10 (n = 102) for MESCC. In this additional analysis, these regimens were compared for their effect in relieving pain and distress. Distress was evaluated with the distress-thermometer (0 = no distress, 10 = extreme distress) and pain on a linear scale (0 = no pain, 10 = worst pain). Relief of distress was defined as decrease of ≥2 points; complete and partial pain relief were defined as achieving a score of 0 points and a decrease ≥2 points, respectively, without increase of analgesic use. This prospective secondary analysis of the SCORE-2 trial aimed to show that 4 Gy × 5 was not inferior to 3 Gy × 10 regarding distress and pain relief. Analyses were performed using the unconditional test of noninferiority for binomial differences based on restricted maximum likelihood estimates (noninferiority margin: -20%). Evaluations were performed before, directly after, and 1, 3, and 6 months after radiation therapy. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02189473).At baseline, median distress scores were 8 (2-10) points in the 4 Gy × 5 group and 8 (2-10) points in the 3 Gy × 10 group. At 1 month, distress relief rates were 58.1% (43/74) and 62.7% (47/75) (difference: -4.6%; 95% confidence interval, -20.0% to +11.1%; P = .025). At baseline, median pain scores were 7 (2-10) and 7 (2-10) points, respectively. At 1 month, complete pain relief rates were 23.5% (16/68) versus 20.0% (14/70) (difference, +3.5%; 95% confidence interval, -10.4% to +17.5%; P.001), and overall pain relief rates were 52.9% (36/68) versus 57.1% (40/70) (difference, -4.2%; 95% confidence interval, -20.5% to +12.3%; P = .029). Distress and pain relief rates after 4 Gy × 5 were largely comparable to 3 Gy × 10 at all time points. Associated 95% confidence intervals did not point toward any relevant differences.In patients with MESCC and poor to intermediate survival prognoses, 4 Gy × 5 appeared noninferior to 3 Gy × 10 regarding pain and distress relief.

Background This study provides separate comparisons of 1 × 8 Gy to 5 × 4 Gy for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC) in patients with poor, intermediate and favorable survival prognoses. Methods Patients receiving 1 × 8 Gy were matched to patients receiving 5 × 4 Gy for age, gender, performance status, tumor type, involved vertebrae, other bone metastases, visceral metastases, interval between tumor diagnosis and MESCC, ambulatory status and time developing motor deficits. From a study including patients with poor (N = 156) or intermediate (N = 86) survival prognoses, subgroup analyses were performed. Furthermore, 232 new patients with favorable prognoses matched the same way were included. Results In poor prognoses patients, 6-month survival rates were 10% after 1 × 8 Gy and 6% after 5 × 4 Gy (p = 0.38); in-field reRT rates in few patients alive at 6 months were 15 and 2% (p = 0.16). In intermediate prognoses patients, 6-month survival rates were 49% after 1 × 8 Gy and 58% after 5 × 4 Gy (p = 0.30). ReRT rates at 6 months were 23 and 13% (p = 0.25). In favorable prognoses patients, 6-month survival rates were 89% after 1 × 8 Gy and 91% after 5 × 4 Gy. ReRT rates at 6 months were 14 and 3% (p = 0.007). In no subgroup, RT regimen had a significant impact on motor function. Conclusions Since in patients with poor prognoses, outcomes after 1 × 8 Gy and 5 × 4 Gy were not significantly different, 1 × 8 Gy may be an option. In patients with intermediate prognoses, a trend was found in favor of 5 × 4 Gy. In patients with favorable prognoses, need for in-field reRT was greater after 1 × 8 Gy.

Background/aim According to our randomized trial, 5×4Gy was comparable to 10×3Gy for metastatic spinal cord compression. Since it remained unclear whether findings applied to poor and intermediate prognoses patients, subgroup analyses were performed. Patients and methods In patients with poor prognoses, 58 received 5×4Gy, 53 received 10×3Gy. In intermediate-prognoses patients, numbers were 43 and 49. Results In patients with poor prognoses, 1-month overall response (OR) was 85% after 5×4Gy and 10×3Gy (p=0.99), improvement 38% vs. 42%, ambulatory status 60% vs. 64% (p=0.83), 6-month local progression-free survival (LPFS) 75% vs. 69% (p=0.74) and 6-month overall survival (OS) 26% vs. 19% (p=0.43). In patients with intermediate prognoses, 1-month OR was 89% after 5×4Gy and 93% after 10×3Gy (p=0.85), improvement 39% vs. 45%, ambulatory status 84% vs. 82% (p=0.90), 6-month LPFS 79% vs. 92% (p=0.17) and 6-months OS 65% vs. 58% (p=0.65). Conclusion 5×4Gy was not significantly inferior to 10x3Gy in both subgroups.

Background For metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC), conventional radiotherapy with 10 × 3 Gy in 2 weeks results in better local progression-free survival (LPFS) than 5 × 4 Gy in 1 week. Since patients with MSCC are often significantly impaired, an overall treatment time of 1 week would be preferable if resulting in similar outcomes as longer programs. This may be achieved with 5 × 5 Gy in 1 week, since the biologically effective dose is similar to 10 × 3 Gy. It can be expected that 5 × 5 Gy (like 10 × 3) Gy results in better LPFS than 5 × 4 Gy in 1 week. Methods/Design This phase 2 study investigates LPFS after high-precision RT with 5 × 5 Gy in 1 week. LPFS is defined as freedom from both progression of motor deficits during RT and new or progressive motor deficits dur to an in-field recurrence of MSCC following RT. Considering the tolerance dose of the spinal cord, 5 × 5 Gy can be safely administered with high-precision radiotherapy such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) or stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Maximum dose to the spinal cord should not exceed 101.5% of the prescribed dose to keep the risk of radiation myelopathy below 0.03%. Primary endpoint is LPFS at 6 months following radiotherapy; secondary endpoints include motor function/ability to walk, sensory function, sphincter dysfunction, LPFS directly and 1 and 3 months following radiotherapy, overall survival, pain relief, quality of life and toxicity. Follow-up visits will be performed directly and at 1, 3 and 6 months following radiotherapy. After completion of this phase 2 study, patients will be compared to a historical control group receiving conventional radiotherapy with 5 × 4 Gy in 1 week. Forty-four patients will be included assuming 5 × 5 Gy will provide the same benefit in LPFS when compared to 5 × 4 Gy as reported for 10 × 3 Gy. Discussion If superiority regarding LPFS is shown for high-precision radiotherapy with 5 × 5 Gy when compared to conventional radiotherapy with 5 × 4 Gy, patients with MSCC would benefit from 5 × 5 Gy, since high LPFS rates could be achieved with 1 week of radiotherapy instead of 2 weeks (10 × 3 Gy). Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT03070431 . Registered 27 February 2017.

e16530 Background: Changes in PSA are widely used as a biomarker for the monitoring of treatment outcome in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC) in the clinical real-world setting. Early PSA changes (before 12 weeks) are not considered in the definition of PSA Progression (PSAProg) due to the potential for spurious “flare” reactions. We aimed to evaluate the significance of an early PSA increase in Abiraterone/Enzalutamide (Abi/Enz)-treated mCRPC patients (pts). Methods: We retrospectively evaluated Abi/Enz-treated mCRPC pts from 11 hospitals between 2011-2018. Early PSAProg was defined as a 25% increase in PSA from baseline at 4 (PSAProg4) or 8 (PSAProg8) weeks after treatment initiation. PSA progression at 12 weeks (PSAProg12) was confirmed by a second reading. Uni- and multivariable (MV) Cox regression models were conducted to explore the association of PSAProg and overall (OS) and radiographic progression-free (rPFS) survival. Sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp) and predictive values (PPV, NPV) for the association of early PSAProg with PSAProg12 were calculated. Results: We analyzed 581 mCRPC pts; median follow-up: 19.1 months. 96 (17.1%); 105 (21.6%) and 85 (16.9%) pts had PSAprog at 4, 8 and 12 wks. PSAProg4 and PSAProg8 were significantly associated with confirmed PSAProg12. 55.3% of pts with PSAProg4 and 66.7% of pts with PSAProg8 had a confirmed PSAProg12. Only 9% of pts with no PSA prog at 4 wks and 4.1% of pts with no PSAProg8 had a confirmed PSAProg12. PSAProg4 had Se: 56.6%, Sp: 90.5%, PPV: 55.2%, NPV: 91% for the detection of PSAProg12. PSAProg8 had Se: 81.9%, Sp: 91.2%, PPV: 66.7%, NPV: 95.9% for the detection of PSAProg12. PSAprog at 4, 8 and 12 wks was significantly associated with OS and rPFS in uni- and MV Cox models (Table). Conclusions: Early PSAProg after Abi/Enz is significantly associated with both confirmed PSA Prog at 12 wks and outcome, and may help identify pts not benefitting from Abi/Enz before clinical or radiographic progression. Prospective validation studies are needed. [Table: see text]

To determine the effectiveness of whole-body diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (WB-DW-MRI) in detecting metastases by comparing the results with those from choline-positron emission tomography-computed tomography (choline-PET/CT) in patients with biochemical relapse after primary treatment, and no metastases in bone scintigraphy, CT and/or pelvic MRI, or metastatic/oligometastatic prostate cancer (PCa). Patients with this disease profile who could benefit from treatment with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) were selected and their responses to these techniques were rated. This was a prospective, controlled, unicentric study, involving 46 consecutive patients from our centre who presented biochemical relapse after adjuvant, salvage or radical treatment with external beam radiotherapy, or brachytherapy. After initial tests (bone scintigraphy, CT, pelvic MRI), 35 patients with oligometastases or without them were selected. 11 patients with multiple metastases were excluded from the study. WB-DW-MRI and choline-PET/CT was then performed on each patient within 1 week. The results were interpreted by specialists in nuclear medicine and MRI. If they were candidates for treatment with ablative SBRT (SABR), they were then evaluated every three months with both tests. Choline-PET/CT detected lesions in 16 patients that were not observable using WB-DW-MRI. The results were consistent in seven patients and in three cases, a lesion was observed using WB-DW-MRI that was not detected with choline-PET/CT. The Kappa value obtained was 0.133 (p = 0.089); the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of WB-DW-MRI were estimated at 44.93, 64.29, 86.11, and 19.15%, respectively. For choline-PET/CT patients, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 97.10, 58.33, 93.06, and 77.78%, respectively. Choline-PET/CT has a high global sensitivity while WB-DW-MRI has a high specificity, and so they are complementary techniques. Future studies with more enrolled patients and a longer follow-up period will be required to confirm these data. The initial data show that the best technique for evaluating response after SBRT is choline-PET/CT. Trial registration number NCT02858128.

A 5×4 Gy program is commonly used for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC). It is unclear whether an overall treatment time (OTT) of 5 days (5 consecutive fractions) results in better outcomes than an OTT of 7 days (ie, no irradiation during the weekend).A total of 111 patients who received 5×4 Gy over 5 consecutive days were retrospectively compared with 277 patients treated with 5×4 Gy over 7 days (no irradiation during the weekend) for effect on motor function, local control of MESCC, and overall survival (OS). Ten further characteristics were evaluated: age, gender, interval tumor diagnosis to MESCC, visceral metastases, other bone metastases, primary tumor type, time developing motor deficits, walking ability, vertebrae involved, and performance status.On multivariate analysis regarding post-radiation therapy motor function, primary tumor type (P = .011) and time developing motor weakness (P.001) were significant, whereas the OTT did not even achieve significance on univariate analysis (P = .99). On multivariate analysis of local control, visceral metastases (P = .006) were significant. Again, the OTT was not even significant on univariate analysis (P = .81). On multivariate analysis of OS, interval tumor diagnosis to MESCC (P = .015), visceral metastases (P .001), tumor type (P = .003), walking ability (P.001), and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance score (P.001) achieved significance. Even on univariate analysis, OTT did not have an effect on OS (P = .79).Longer OTT did not impair outcomes of irradiation with 5×4 Gy for MESCC; thus, no compensation (for example an additional radiation fraction) is necessary if the radiation treatment is not continued during the weekend.

Malignant spinal cord compression (SCC) is treated with radiotherapy (RT). Additional neurosurgery has become more widely used since a trial showed a benefit for selected patients. Although lymphomas were excluded from that trial, neurosurgery is also increasingly being performed in these patients. This study investigated whether neurosurgery is actually required for this group.Twenty-nine patients receiving RT alone for SCC from vertebral lymphoma were analyzed for motor function, walking ability, in-field recurrence and survival.Overall response was 100% (72% improvement, 28% stable). At 1, 6 and 12 months after RT, 83%, 100% and 100% of patients were able to walk; 64%, 100%, and 100% of non-ambulatory patients regained their walking ability. Freedom from in-field recurrence was 100% at 6 and 12 months. Survival rates at 6 and 12 months were 79% and 75%.RT alone resulted in excellent outcomes for SCC from lymphoma. These patients may not require surgery.

Background This study was performed to design a predictive tool that allows the estimation of overall survival (OS) of elderly myeloma patients (aged ≥65 years) presenting with myeloma-induced spinal cord compression (SCC). Methods One-hundred-and-sixteen patients irradiated for motor deficits of the legs due to myeloma-induced spinal cord compression were retrospectively evaluated. Ten characteristics were analyzed for OS including age, interval between myeloma diagnosis and radiotherapy, other osseous myeloma lesions, myeloma type, gender, time developing motor deficits, number of affected vertebrae, ECOG-PS, pre-radiotherapy ambulatory status, and fractionation regimen. Characteristics that achieved significance on multivariate analysis were included in the predictive tool. The score for each characteristic was obtained from the 1-year OS rate divided by 10. The sum of these scores represented the prognostic score for each patient. Results On multivariate analysis, myeloma type (hazard ratio 3.31; 95 %-confidence interval 1.75–6.49; p

PURPOSE To evaluate the magnitude of systematic and random errors from a subset of 100 prostate and 26 head and neck (HN) cancer patients treated with conventional conformal radiotherapy and using image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT). After treatment, the uncertainties involved and the CTV to PTV margin were evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS An Elekta Synergy® linear accelerator was used, taking advantage of 3D on-board computed tomography. IGRT with no-action level (NAL) protocol was applied, reporting the 3D translation and rotation corrections. A statistical study was performed to analyse systematic, random and interobserver uncertainties, and, finally, to obtain the CTV to PTV margins. RESULTS The HN patients' uncertainties found were smaller than those of prostate patients. The CTV to PTV margins assessed, following the guidelines found in the literature, in the three dimensions of space (right-left, superior-inferior, anterior-posterior) were (5.3, 3.5, 3.2) mm for HN and (7.3, 7.0, 9.0) mm for prostate cancer treatments. CONCLUSIONS It was found that assessing all the involved uncertainties within radiation treatments was very revealing; their quality improves using IGRT techniques and performing extensive data analysis.

Purpose To compare short-course radiotherapy (RT) (4 Gy × 5) to longer-course RT (3 Gy × 10) for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC). Patients and Methods Two-hundred three patients with MESCC and poor to intermediate expected survival were randomly assigned to 4 Gy × 5 in 1 week (n = 101) or 3 Gy × 10 in 2 weeks (n = 102). Patients were stratified according to ambulatory status, time developing motor deficits, and primary tumor type. Seventy-eight and 77 patients, respectively, were evaluable for the primary end point, 1-month overall response regarding motor function defined as improvement or no further progression of motor deficits. Other study end points included ambulatory status, local progression-free survival, and overall survival. End points were evaluated immediately after RT and at 1, 3, and 6 months thereafter. Results At 1 month, overall response rates regarding motor function were 87.2% after 4 Gy × 5 and 89.6% after 3 Gy × 10 (P = .73). Improvement rates were 38.5% and 44.2%, respectively, no further progression rates 48.7% and 45.5%, respectively, and deterioration rates 12.8% and 10.4%, respectively (P = .44). Ambulatory rates at 1 month were 71.8% and 74.0%, respectively (P = .86). At other times after RT, the results were also not significantly different. Six-month local progression-free survival was 75.2% after 4 Gy × 5 and 81.8% after 3 Gy × 10 (P = .51); 6-month overall survival was 42.3% and 37.8% (P = .68). Conclusion Short-course RT with 4 Gy × 5 was not significantly inferior to 3 Gy × 10 in patients with MESCC and poor to intermediate expected survival.

To develop a tool for predicting survival of elderly patients with malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC) from renal cell carcinoma.In 71 elderly patients, 10 factors were analyzed. Predictive scores were generated based on 6-month survival rates.Longer interval from renal cell carcinoma diagnosis to MSCC (p=0.019), lack of visceral metastases (p0.001), slower progression of motor deficits (p0.001), ambulation (p0.001) and better performance status (p=0.002) were positive predictors. On multivariate analysis, interval from renal cell carcinoma diagnosis to MSCC (p=0.022), visceral metastases (p0.001), time to developing motor dysfunction (p=0.041), gait function (p=0.002) and performance status (p=0.017) remained significant. Predictive scores were 17 to 36 points. Four groups were created: 17-23, 24-26, 27-29 and 30-36 points. Six-month survival rates were 8%, 30%, 69% and 100%, respectively (p0.001).This tool improves estimation of survival and personalized treatment options in elderly patients with MSCC from renal cell carcinoma.

Background Uncertainty exists whether patients with spinal cord compression (SCC) from a highly radiosensitive tumor require decompressive spinal surgery in addition to radiotherapy (RT). This study addressed the question by evaluating patients receiving RT alone for SCC from myeloma. Patients and methods Data of 238 patients were retrospectively analyzed for response to RT and local control of SCC. In addition, the effect of RT on motor function (improvement, no further progression, deterioration) was evaluated. Overall response was defined as improvement or no further progression of motor dysfunction. Prior to RT, patients were presented to a neurosurgeon for evaluation whether upfront decompressive surgery was indicated (e.g. vertebral fracture or unstable spine). Results In the entire cohort, the overall response rate was 97% (53% improvement plus 44% no further progression). Following RT, 88% of the patients were able to walk. Of the 69 non-ambulatory patients 44 patients (64%) regained the ability to walk. Local control rates at 1, 2 and 3 years were 93%, 82% and 82%, respectively. A trend towards better local control was observed for patients who were ambulatory before starting RT (p = 0.08) and those with a more favorable performance status (p = 0.07). Conclusions RT alone provided excellent response rates, functional outcomes and local control in patients with SCC from myeloma. These results should be confirmed in a prospective randomized trial.

Cancers of unknown primary (CUP) account for about 10% in elderly patients with MESCC. Immediate treatment is indicated. Personalizing treatment for MESCC requires for clear understanding of the patients' survival prognosis. In this case, a tool for estimating survival would be valuable.In 104 elderly CUP patients, nine factors were investigated: age, gender, performance score, number of affected vertebrae, ability to walk at presentation for radiotherapy, additional bone metastases, visceral metastases, time developing motor weakness, radiotherapy program.In multivariate analysis, the ability to walk (p=0.011) and visceral metastases (p0.001) were associated with survival. The following scores were assigned: unable to walk=0, able to walk=1, visceral metastases=0, no visceral metastases=1. Three groups were formed (0, 1 and 2 points) with 6-month survival rates of 7%, 18% and 73% (p0.001).This specific tool assists the physician to estimate survival and select for the most suitable radiotherapy program in elderly CUP patients with MESCC.

Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is an oncological emergency. Many elderly patients cannot tolerate intensive treatment and need individual approaches accounting for a patient's remaining lifetime. The goal of the present study was to develop a survival score for elderly prostate cancer patients with MSCC.Nine characteristics were analyzed in 243 patients: age, performance status, interval from prostate cancer diagnosis until MSCC, affected vertebrae, ambulatory status, further bone lesions, visceral metastases, time developing motor deficits, fractionation schedule.Pre-radiotherapy ambulatory status (p0.001), visceral metastases (p0.001) and time developing motor deficits (p0.001) were significant for survival on Cox regression analysis and included in the survival score. Four groups were defined: 9-12, 13-16, 17-19 and 21-23 points. Six-month survival rates were 7%, 28%, 71% and 95%, respectively (p0.001).The present study identified four groups with different survival probabilities that require treatment strategies with different priorities ranging from symptom control to prolongation of life.

Elderly patients with lung cancer need personalized treatment in palliative situations such as metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC). It is crucial to know a patient's survival prognosis to be able to provide optimal and individualized care. Therefore, a prognostic instrument enabling physicians to estimate a patient's survival time is required. We created such an instrument in the present study.The data from 201 elderly patients with lung cancer irradiated for MESCC were retrospectively evaluated. The radiation regimen used plus 10 factors were analyzed for associations with survival, including age, gender, histologic features, performance status, interval from lung cancer diagnosis until irradiation of MESCC, interval to developing motor weakness before irradiation, number of affected vertebrae, visceral metastases, other bone metastases, and the ability to walk before irradiation. The factors significant on multivariate analysis were included in the predictive instrument. The factor scores were obtained by dividing the 6-month survival rate by 10, and the patient scores were determined from the sum of the factor scores.Performance status (P = .003), interval to developing motor weakness (P = .006), visceral metastases (P .001), and the ability to walk (P = .002) were associated with survival. Taking into account the 6-month survival rates of these factors, the patient scores ranged from 5 to 19 points. Thus, 4 groups were designated: those with 5 to 10 points (n = 95), 11 to 13 points (n = 46), 14 to 16 points (n = 33), and 18 to 19 points (n = 27). The corresponding 6-month survival rates were 4%, 26%, 58%, and 81% (P .001). The corresponding median survival times were 2, 4, 7, and 10 months.This new instrument will enable physicians to predict the survival prognosis of elderly patients with lung cancer-related MESCC, facilitating individualized treatment care.

Aim To evaluate the possibility of implementing a new scheme of rescue treatment after relapse or progression of high-grade glioma (HGG) treated at the first-line with bevacizumab and irinotecan (BVZ+CPT11), evaluating the response and toxicity of associating BVZ and fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (BVZ+FSRT). Materials and methods We retrospectively analysed data from 59 patients with relapse of HGG. Nine patients with HGG relapse after treatment using the Stupp protocol that were treated with BVZ+CPT11 for progression between July 2007 and August 2012, after which the response was assessed according to the Revised Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria. BVZ was administered at a dose of 10 mg/kg and FSRT up to a prescribed dose of 30 Gy, 500 cGy per fraction, three days a week. The median follow-up was 38 months. Results The treatment was well-tolerated by all patients. The response after nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3–6 months was progression in two patients, stable disease in four, and three patients had a partial response. The median overall survival (OS) from diagnosis until death or the last control was 36.8 months. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 10.8 months. The results from tumour sub-group analysis indicated that the PFS was not statistically significant although it seemed that it was higher in grade-III. The OS was higher in grade-III gliomas. Conclusions The combination of BVZ+FSRT as a second-line HGG relapse rescue treatment is well-tolerated and seems to offer promising results. We believe that multi-centre prospective studies are needed to determine the long-term efficacy and toxicity of this therapeutic approach.

INTRODUCTION: Epileptic seizures are common in oncologic patients. Seizures could be the initial symptom of a brain tumor in 20-40% of the cases and 40% of the patients with brain tumors will have a seizure throught the diseqse. Management of these complications is crucial in the treatment of brain tumors. The ideal antiepileptic drug (AED) would be that one which could ensure a high and proved efficacy, wide security, low interactions, easy and quick to titrate and available in i.v. formulation. Until today there is a scarce number of publications on the use of lacosamide (LCM) in patients with btain tumors, although there is some experience in routine clinical practice that has previously shown a very promising profile of efficacy and safety. This study tries to compile some of these experiences in Spain. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of LCM in the management of seizures in patients with brain tumors. Secondary objectives were the evaluation of safety and tolerability of LCM . DESIGN: Multicentric, observational, non-interventional retrospective study. Patients who suffered at least 1 convulsive episode and at least treated with 1 dose of LCM were recruited. RESULTS: 37 patients with brain tumor suffering seizures were recruited in 6 centers all over the country, and 24 of them (64.9%) could be followed-up until the end of the study (after 6 months). Of these 37 patients, 26 (70%) were male, the age was 54.14 ± 14 years. 28 patients had one lesion and 9 had several lesions, 7 of them were metastatic. The average of total number of seizures from the onset of LCM treatment to the last visit performed shows a statistically significant change from the initiation of LCM treatment, showing a reduction of -16.8 ± 41'7 seizures. (p

Show that verification through cone beam Kv CT (CBKvCT) in a series of patients treated with 3D external radiotherapy (3DRT) for prostate cancer (PC) is related to a reduction in acute and late toxicity levels. A retrospective, non-randomized study of two homogeneous groups of patients treated between 2005 and 2008, 46 were verified using electronic portal devices (EPIDs) and 48 through CBKvCT. They received 3DRT for localized PC (T1-T3N0M0) and were prescribed the same doses. Treatment was simulated and planned with the same criteria with the same equipment with a median follow-up time of 24 months (12–54 months). Urinary and gastrointestinal toxicity was determined using Common Toxicity Criteria scale, version 4 and RTOG scales. Statistical analysis of data was performed where p