Reirradiation of Recurrent Brain Metastases: Where Do We Stand?

TitleReirradiation of Recurrent Brain Metastases: Where Do We Stand?
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2019
AuthorsChidambaram S, Pannullo SC, Schwartz TH, A Wernicke G
JournalWorld Neurosurg
Volume125
Pagination156-163
Date Published2019 05
ISSN1878-8769
KeywordsBrain Neoplasms, Cranial Irradiation, Humans, Neoplasm Recurrence, Local, Re-Irradiation
Abstract

Brain metastases occur in a large portion of patients with cancer. Although advances in radiotherapy have helped to improve survival, they have also raised questions regarding the best modality for retreatment in the context of recurrent disease. The spectrum of treatment options for recurrent intracranial metastatic disease after previous radiotherapy includes salvage stereotactic radiosurgery, whole brain radiotherapy, and brachytherapy. We have comprehensively reviewed the existing data on the efficacy and toxicity of the various reirradiation treatment modalities. We examined the key clinical considerations that guide patient selection, such as dose, tumor size, interval to retreatment, and local control and survival rates.

DOI10.1016/j.wneu.2019.01.182
Alternate JournalWorld Neurosurg
PubMed ID30738931