A Hypofractionated Radiotherapy Schedule with a Simultaneous Integrated Boost for Breast Cancer: Outcomes including Late Toxicity and Health Quality

<i>Introduction</i>: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term adverse effects on the physical appearance and overall well-being of breast cancer patients who receive hypofractionated radiotherapy as whole breast and simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) treatment, utilizing intensive mod...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Zuleyha Akgun, Aydin Cakir, Esra Sağlam, Sertac Demirel, Abdullah Igci, Serkan Keskin
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2023-03-01
Series:Medicina
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/59/4/675
Description
Summary:<i>Introduction</i>: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term adverse effects on the physical appearance and overall well-being of breast cancer patients who receive hypofractionated radiotherapy as whole breast and simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) treatment, utilizing intensive modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), or a hybrid therapy approach. <i>Material/Methods</i>: This investigation involved administering hypofractionated SIB-VMAT therapy to individuals diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Treatment was carried out over a three-week period in which a total dose of 48.06 Gy was given to the entire breast and 54 Gy was given to the tumor bed. Data on skin toxicity and cosmetic outcomes were analyzed both during the acute phase and during the three-month and five-year follow-up periods after treatment. <i>Results</i>: A total of 125 patients treated between December 2014 and December 2016 were included in the study. The data of these patients with at least 5 years of follow-up were analyzed. <i>Conclusions</i>: Considering these long-term results, hypofractionated SIB-VMAT can be considered a viable treatment choice, even for patients with unfavorable conditions.
ISSN:1010-660X
1648-9144