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

• Main Authors: Yamoah K, Johnstone PA
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dove Medical Press 2016-09-01
• Series: OncoTargets and Therapy
• Subjects: Proton therapy; Prostate cancer
• Online Access: https://www.dovepress.com/proton-beam-therapy-clinical-utility-and-current-status-in-prostate-ca-peer-reviewed-article-OTT

Kosj Yamoah, Peter AS Johnstone Radiation Oncology Department, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA 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. Keywords: proton therapy, prostate cancer, radiotherapy