Quality control of involved-field radiotherapy for patients with early stage Hodgkin’s lymphoma based on a central prospective review

Abstract

Central review of the diagnostic imaging and clinical findings of Hodgkin's lymphoma patients shows a considerable number of discrepancies compared with the local evaluation. Thus, meticulous evaluation of all imaging information in close collaboration between the radiation oncologist and diagnostic radiologist is mandatory.

Radiation Therapy in the German Hodgkin Study Group HD 16 and HD 17 Trials: Quality Assurance and Dosimetric Analysis for Hodgkin Lymphoma in the Modern Era

“…Historically, quality assurance by the reference radiology and radiation oncology panel of the GHSG has proven to enhance both accuracy in diagnostic and therapy for HL. 11 , 12 , 14 The main reason for major deviations still lie within an inadequate coverage of an involved region which is in accordance with the literature. 11 , 12 A detailed recurrence analysis of the HD 16 trial showed that infield relapses constitute the major pattern of failures if RT is omitted in the treatment.…”

“…Previous analyses on quality assurance have illustrated the importance of a systematic assessment of RT plans leading to harmonization and improvement of treatment concepts. 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 The aim of the present analysis is to continue this work and to examine whether the high standards of the GHSG could be maintained. One essential question was whether the transfer from IFRT to INRT within HD 17 was successful.…”