Proton beam therapy: clinical utility and current status in prostate cancer

Abstract

Proton beam therapy has recently become available to a broader population base. There remains much controversy about its routine use in prostate cancer. We provide an analysis of the existing literature regarding efficacy and toxicity of the technique. Currently, the use of proton beam therapy for prostate cancer is largely dependent on continued reimbursement for the practice. While there are potential benefits supporting the use of protons in prostate cancer, the low risk of toxicity using existing techniques and the high cost of protons contribute to lower the value of the technique.

Radiation and Thyroid Cancer

“…Until now, radiation is largely used in clinical diagnostics and therapy with remarkable clinical benefits for patients. Radiotherapy is essentially based on both X- and γ-rays, which provide photons that are able to specifically penetrate the target and that can be captured on film [3]. Proton therapy uses proton beams that do not traverse the target but stop at an energy-dependent depth within the target with no exit dose [3].…”

“…Radiotherapy is essentially based on both X- and γ-rays, which provide photons that are able to specifically penetrate the target and that can be captured on film [3]. Proton therapy uses proton beams that do not traverse the target but stop at an energy-dependent depth within the target with no exit dose [3]. Despite positive diagnostic and therapeutic aspects, the inappropriate use of computed tomography, leading to cancer risk, has been drawing attention for many years [4].…”