Archive | 2019
Brain Irradiation Paradigms for Childhood Central Nervous System Tumors
Abstract
Radiotherapy with ionizing radiation is an effective therapeutic tool for benign and malignant brain tumors in children, but it also contributes to late toxicity experienced by survivors of childhood cancer. The more frequently used external beam radiotherapy techniques with photons (X-rays) or protons will be discussed, as well as special applications such as stereotactic radiosurgery and less commonly used techniques such as brachytherapy. Common indications for central nervous system radiotherapy in the pediatric population will be reviewed. Advances in treatment technology including image guidance, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, and proton therapy have resulted in decreased radiation exposure of normal tissues and should decrease the incidence and severity of late effects of radiotherapy.