J Cancer Res Ther [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Volumetric comparison of gross tumor volume between PET-CT fused and CT based simulation in head and neck radiotherapy planning.
Kumar SS, Sandhiya R, Padmanabhan RV
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910301 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Accurate gross tumor volume (GTV) delineation is critical in head and neck radiotherapy, yet conventional CT imaging may inadequately distinguish viable tumor from postinflammatory or necrotic changes. PET-CT...
BACKGROUND: Accurate gross tumor volume (GTV) delineation is critical in head and neck radiotherapy, yet conventional CT imaging may inadequately distinguish viable tumor from postinflammatory or necrotic changes. PET-CT offers metabolic imaging that may refine target delineation. OBJECTIVE: To prospectively compare gross tumor volumes derived from CT-based versus PET-CT-fused planning in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) undergoing definitive chemoradiotherapy. METHODS: Fifteen patients with histologically confirmed locally advanced HNSCC (stages I-IVB) underwent standardized CT simulation, followed by 18F-FDG PET-CT within five working days using identical immobilization. GTV was independently delineated on CT images (CT-GTV) and fused PET-CT images (PET-GTV). Volumetric differences were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: The cohort included 10 males and 5 females (median age: 64 years), predominantly with stage III-IVA disease. Primary subsites comprised oropharynx (40%), oral cavity (20%), and larynx (13%). CT-GTV ranged from 32.67-110.15 cm3 (mean: 61.77 ± 24.46 cm3), while PET-GTV ranged from 35.23-123.64 cm3 (mean: 72.45 ± 27.69 cm3), representing a 17.3% mean volumetric increase. All 15 patients demonstrated larger target volumes with PET-CT fusion (Z = -3.296, P = 0.001). TNM staging was modified in 20% of cases, including upstaging of one N0 patient to N+ based on metabolically active nodal disease. CONCLUSIONS: PET-CT fusion consistently identifies larger gross tumor volumes than CT alone in locally advanced head and neck cancer, with systematic underestimation by anatomic imaging. This has significant implications for adequate tumor coverage and treatment planning accuracy in definitive radiotherapy.
Experimental dosimetry in locally fabricated phantom for endobronchial brachytherapy plan: A phantom study.
Kant R, Uniyal SC, Rawat J … +2 more , Gupta M, Nautiyal V
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910300 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: This study is to perform dosimetric analysis in a locally fabricated thorax phantom with the help of radiochromic film. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A thorax human body tissue equivalent phantom was fabricated. Thi...
BACKGROUND: This study is to perform dosimetric analysis in a locally fabricated thorax phantom with the help of radiochromic film. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A thorax human body tissue equivalent phantom was fabricated. This phantom was scanned in the positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PETCT) machine and transferred the CT data into the Oncentra Master Plan treatment planning system (TPS). A brachytherapy (BT) plan created in TPS, exported to the high dose rate (HDR) BT machine. Placed Radiochromic EBT3 film dosimeter at the desired locations in the phantom and irradiate on machine with Ir-192 source. The TPS calculated values were compared with film measured values in the Phantom. Doses at five points in each film for each organ at risk were measured and compared with the TPS calculated doses to see the effects of distance on dose variation for analysis purpose. RESULTS: The film measured doses deviate from TPS calculated doses with -2.5%, -3.2%, 3.8%, 2.4%, 5.3%, 17.75%, -7.1%, -9.4%, and 7.1% variation to Heart, Esophagus, Spinal Cord, descending Aorta, Ipsilateral Lung, Ipsilateral Lung 2 cm depth, pulmonary trunk, coronary artery, and contralateral Lung doses, respectively. In each film out of five points the center point and point closure to the source was having less variation between TPS calculated and film measured doses then other points. CONCLUSION: This variation is due to the algorithm used in BT TPS so it is important to perform a verification of the treatment plan before execution in the patient to assure accuracy of treatment delivery. It is cheaper and used as a quality assurance Tool.
Dosimetric evaluation of the tangential and supraclavicular breast radiotherapy fields junction in mono and dual isocentric techniques with practical measurement and comparison versus TomoDirect technique.
Mirzaie H, Banaee N, Nedaie HA … +1 more , Samaei N
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910299 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Accurate dose distribution at the junction of tangential and supraclavicular fields in breast radiotherapy is affected by various dosimetric uncertainties. This study evaluates the accuracy of the Monaco treatme...
PURPOSE: Accurate dose distribution at the junction of tangential and supraclavicular fields in breast radiotherapy is affected by various dosimetric uncertainties. This study evaluates the accuracy of the Monaco treatment planning system (TPS) and compares the dose distributions of monoisocentric (MI), dual-isocentric (DIHS, DIFS), and TomoDirect techniques to determine the most effective approach for dose accuracy and homogeneity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anthropomorphic phantom was used for experimental dose verification. Dose distributions of 3DCRT techniques (MI, dual-isocentric half-field (DIHS), and dual-isocentric full-field (DIFS) techniques) were calculated in Monaco TPS. Gamma index analysis was performed on dose profiles obtained at depths of 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 cm to evaluate the agreement between calculated and measured doses using EBT3 films. Additionally, TomoDirect 3DCRT (TD-3DCRT) and IMRT (TD-IMRT) techniques were compared with 3DCRT techniques. RESULTS: The Monaco TPS with the XVMC algorithm demonstrated superior accuracy in the buildup region compared to the CCC algorithm, achieving gamma agreement above 90% at deeper depths. Among techniques, TD-IMRT provided the most homogeneous dose distribution at the junction of breast and supraclavicular PTVs. The MI technique resulted in lower dose variations than DIHS, DIFS, and TD-3DCRT and minimized dose escalation in the superficial layers of the supraclavicular region. CONCLUSION: The Monaco TPS with the XVMC algorithm ensures greater accuracy than the CCC algorithm. TD-IMRT offers optimal dose homogeneity at the field junction, while the MI technique achieves superior tumor dose coverage with reduced surface dose in the supraclavicular region, making it a preferable choice.
Footprints of patient-specific quality assurance in radiation oncology in India: A survey.
Katake A, Kumar L, Basandrai D
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910298 · Publisher ↗
AIM: A survey was conducted across various institutes to assess the footprints of patient-specific quality assurance (PSQA) in radiation oncology practice in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multiple-choice pre-questionna...
AIM: A survey was conducted across various institutes to assess the footprints of patient-specific quality assurance (PSQA) in radiation oncology practice in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multiple-choice pre-questionnaire was created to assess the practice of PSQA for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). A Google Form was used to conduct the online survey. The medical physicists at different radiotherapy institutions with at least one functioning teletherapy machine received a Google Form via email/social media with a link to a Google Form survey. The survey URL was shared with medical physicists with the understanding that participation would be voluntary. RESULTS: The present survey turnout was 63.5% and the leading respondents were from tier II cities with 43.5%. The 41.7% hospital was treating more than 750 cancer patients every year. The majority of hospitals (99.0%) have C-series linear accelerators (LINAC). Most commonly used photon energy for treatment was 6 MV (FF/FFF). The majority of users (94.44%) follow the gamma passing criteria of 3%/3 mm, and 91.6% users follow the gamma passing rate of >95%. CONCLUSION: The survey provided significant information on the current PSQA methods, instruments, and techniques used by different hospitals practicing IMRT and VMAT techniques. There was variation in the practice of PSQA, the equipment used, their methodology, and the analysis followed. The most common PSQA analysis followed was ±3% for ion chamber measurements and 3% dose difference and 3 mm distance to agreement for gamma-analysis. Additionally, limited use of a heterogeneous phantom for PSQA was observed in clinical settings.
A prospective randomized study of sequential boost versus simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiation therapy with concurrent chemotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer.
Sikdar D, Joseph DM, Sharma N … +8 more , Rout SN, Sreejeev AT, Rastogi A, Krishnan AS, Ahuja R, Gupta SR, Pasricha R, Gupta MK
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910297 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy can lessen side effects from treatment and are currently the standard of care for locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC). The b...
PURPOSE: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy can lessen side effects from treatment and are currently the standard of care for locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC). The boost radiation can be delivered as a sequential or simultaneous integrated boost. Whether they differ in improving locoregional control or toxicity is largely unknown. In the current study, we prospectively compared two types of IMRT for non-nasopharyngeal LAHNC: sequential IMRT (SEQ-IMRT) and simultaneous integrated boost IMRT (SIB-IMRT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Random assignment placed 66 patients with LAHNC into one of two treatment groups: SEQ-IMRT or SIB-IMRT. Patients in the SEQ-IMRT arm received a total radiotherapy (RT) dose of 70 Gy in 35 fractions over 7 weeks, and the SIB-IMRT arm received 66 Gy in 30 fractions over 6 weeks. Concurrent weekly cisplatin 40 mg/m2 chemotherapy was given to all. Acute toxicity was evaluated in each patient once a week, and follow-up was done every 3 months to assess response. RESULTS: SIB-IMRT showed a higher grade 3 or more dysphagia (45.5% vs. 24.2%, P 0.001) and higher nasogastric tube dependency. The rest of the acute toxicity profiles of both treatment arms did not show any significant difference. After a long-term follow-up of 4 years, both research arms exhibited identical progression-free (P = 0.855) and overall survival (P = 0.554) rates. CONCLUSION: Reduced overall treatment time and convenience in RT planning are significant advantages of SIB, especially in high-volume centers. Anticipation of higher grades of dysphagia and management of the same is necessary.
Early changes in pulmonary function after stereotactic body radiotherapy for lung oligometastases.
Aksoy RA, Koca T, Çıtak S … +2 more , Dirol H, Korcum AF
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910296 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate early pulmonary function changes after stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in patients with lung oligometastases and to identify predictors of clinically meaningful decline. METH...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate early pulmonary function changes after stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in patients with lung oligometastases and to identify predictors of clinically meaningful decline. METHODS: This retrospective analysis included 55 patients with 71 lung metastases treated with SBRT between January 2021 and October 2024. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were performed before and three months after treatment. Parameters included forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio, vital capacity (VC), and diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO). A decline of ≥10% from baseline was considered clinically meaningful. Cut-off values were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Associations were evaluated using Chi-square tests. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: Mean FEV1 declined from 82.5 ± 22.8% to 78.3 ± 21.2% (P = 0.007), and the FEV1/FVC (% of predicted ratio) decreased from 110.3 ± 14.1% to 106.8 ± 16.2% (P = 0.04). No significant change was observed in FVC, VC, or DLCO. A ≥10% decline in FEV1 was observed in 23.6% of patients (n = 13), and in the FEV1/FVC ratio in 18.1% (n = 10). Clinically meaningful declines were significantly associated with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) histology (P = 0.003), leukocyte count ≥7.18 ×10≥/μL (P = 0.01), metastasis diameter ≥12.5 mm (P = 0.01), and age ≥65 years (P = 0.01). PFT change was not associated with OS. CONCLUSION: SBRT in patients with lung oligometastases results in modest early declines in airflow parameters, while lung volumes and gas exchange remain stable. NSCLC histology, systemic inflammation, metastasis size, and age may help identify patients at higher risk.
A randomized controlled trial of probiotics to reduce the severity of oral mucositis in patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
Sojitra S, Soni TP, Patni N … +9 more , Singh DK, Jakhotia N, Rawat S, Gupta AK, Gupta TC, Ledwani N, Singhal H, Sharma S, Gothwal RS
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910295 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: While probiotics show promise in reducing chemoradiotherapy side effects like oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients, robust clinical evidence of their consistent effectiveness is still needed. The o...
BACKGROUND: While probiotics show promise in reducing chemoradiotherapy side effects like oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients, robust clinical evidence of their consistent effectiveness is still needed. The objectives of this study were to compare the incidence and severity of oral mucositis, dysphagia, and compliance of radiotherapy treatment between the study arm (oral probiotics, along with concurrent chemoradiotherapy) and the control arm (concurrent chemoradiotherapy alone) in patients of locally advanced carcinoma oropharynx. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 70 patients of carcinoma of the oropharynx were randomized to the probiotics arm (study arm, n = 35) and the non-probiotics arm (control arm, n = 35). All patients received radiotherapy to a total dose of 70 Gy in 35 fractions, along with concurrent weekly cisplatin chemotherapy. Patients in the probiotics arm were given 65 ml of probiotic milk beverage (Yakult) containing 6.5 billion colony-forming units Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain to drink once a day for 7 weeks during chemoradiotherapy treatment. RESULTS: Incidence of severe mucositis, dysphagia, and significant weight loss was significantly lower in the probiotics arm compared to the control arm. Patients in the probiotics arm experienced significantly less grade 3 oral mucositis (four patients, 11.43%) and grade 3 dysphagia (six patients, 17.14%) compared to patients in the control arm (12 patients, 34.29% and 13 patients, 37.14%, respectively; P < 0.001). Compliance was not statistically different in both the arms. CONCLUSION: In this randomized clinical trial of carcinoma oropharynx patients, probiotics reduced the concurrent chemoradiotherapy-induced severe oral mucositis and dysphagia.
The effect of perioperative lidocaine during modified radical mastectomy on postoperative pain and immune response: A randomized clinical trial.
Hadavi SMR, Sahmeddini MA, Khademi S … +1 more , Boostani N
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910294 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Surgical resection of the breast mass could induce an inflammatory response, which increases cytokines, such as interleukin IL beta-1 and IL-6. These mediator...
PURPOSE: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Surgical resection of the breast mass could induce an inflammatory response, which increases cytokines, such as interleukin IL beta-1 and IL-6. These mediators lead to peripheral and central sensitization and induce hyperalgesia. In this study, we hypothesized that perioperative lidocaine infusion could not only reduce serum interleukin levels but also reduce postoperative pain severity. METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial, 90 women who were candidates for elective mastectomy under general anesthesia were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups. In group A, patients received 2 mg/kg of lidocaine stat and 1.5 mg/kg/hr of lidocaine infusion perioperatively, and patients in group B received normal saline. Serum levels of interleukin 1 beta and 6 were measured before the start of infusions and 24 hours after. Also, postoperative pain was evaluated until 24 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean visual analog post-operation was significantly lower in the lidocaine group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The baseline mean serum levels of interleukin 1 beta and 6 in preoperative time in both groups were not different (P > 0.05). However, 24 hours postoperatively, the mean serum level of interleukin 6 was higher in the control group compared to the lidocaine group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Perioperative systemic lidocaine infusion in patients with breast cancer could modulate the production of IL-6, and through the reduction of this cytokine, patients experienced better pain control in the immediate postoperative period. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20121204011662N11, date of registration: 09-01-2018.
A study exploring the roles of desmoplastic reaction, tumor budding, tumor infiltrating lymphocytes, and depth of invasion as potential predictive parameters for extranodal extension in oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Jansari TR, Jansari J, Gevariya V … +2 more , Chauhan A, Shah S
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910293 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas constitute the eighth most common malignancy worldwide. Desmoplastic reaction (DR), tumor budding (TB), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and depth of invasion (DOI...
BACKGROUND: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas constitute the eighth most common malignancy worldwide. Desmoplastic reaction (DR), tumor budding (TB), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and depth of invasion (DOI) are some of the histological predictors of extranodal extension (ENE) and poor prognosis. In this study, we aimed to investigate their association in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective analytical study included 329 specimens of OSCC from our hospital. All data were collected from the histopathological records (e.g. age, gender, diagnosis, lymph node metastasis, ENE, DR, TB, TILs, and DOI). The datasets were analyzed using the Chi-square test and GraphPad InStat 3 software. RESULTS: The majority of cases were seen in the age group of ≥60 years (221/329, 67.17%). Out of 35 ENE-positive patients, 31 (88.6%) had progressive OSCC. We found a significant association between immature DR (DR-I), high TB (TB-H), and low TILs with pathological DOI (pDOI) >10 mm (P value: <0.0001, 0.001, and < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant association between DR, TB, and TILs at the primary site with that of the ENE sites (P value: 0.02, 0.002, and 0.001, respectively). TB-H and pDOI >10 mm were the independent variables for the prediction of ENE (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07-4.95, P value: 0.003 and 95% CI = 1.11-1.52, P value: 0.0008, respectively). TB-H and pDOI >10 mm showed the highest sensitivity (85.1% and 97.1%, respectively) and DR-I exhibited the highest specificity (83.8%) for the presence of ENE. CONCLUSION: Detecting ENE not only predicts outcomes but also influences the treatment strategies and quality of life.
Real-world treatment patterns and outcomes in Indian patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer treated with palbociclib.
Rajappa S, Bapna A, Arya D … +3 more , Desai C, Shah M, Walia M
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910292 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Palbociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, was approved by FDA in 2015 for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC). It wa...
BACKGROUND: Palbociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, was approved by FDA in 2015 for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC). It was approved based on clinical benefits observed in PALOMA-1/TRIO-18 and PALOMA-2 Trial of Palbociclib. Despite its benefits in clinical studies, the data related to real-world outcomes are limited. This retrospective real-world observational study was designed to evaluate effectiveness of Palbociclib among Indian patients diagnosed with HR+/HER2- ABC. METHODS: The study was conducted across six hospitals and enrolled 150 patients treated with Palbociclib and aromatase inhibitors or Fulvestrant from December 2016 to May 2021. It focused on the analysis of clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and clinical outcomes of patients receiving Palbociclib combinations. RESULTS: Of the 150 enrolled patients, 97% had ABC and 70% received Palbociclib as first-line therapy. The majority of patients (94.6%) received 125 mg/day Palbociclib as starting dose. 25.3% of patients required at least one dose adjustment. Overall, real-world response rate and the real-world clinical benefit rate across treatment lines were 68% and 75.3%, respectively. The overall persistence rate during the first six months of treatment was 62.9% for the first-line and 48.9% for the second-line therapies. CONCLUSION: In India, where patients with BC often present at advanced stages due to late diagnosis and limited access to targeted therapies, Palbociclib offers a well-tolerated and effective treatment option. Real-world data from Indian patients highlight its role in bridging treatment gaps, making personalized therapy more accessible, and aligning treatment strategies with global standards.
Comparison of the effects of intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine, levobupivacaine, and ropivacaine during interventional brachytherapy: A double-blind, randomized crossover study.
Maurya P, Ghosh S, Gupta N … +10 more , Gupta R, Garg R, Bharati SJ, Kumar V, Ratre BK, Vig S, Sirohiya P, Kamboj K, Mishra S, Bhatnagar S
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910291 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The choice of intrathecal local anesthetic influences discharge readiness and brachytherapy success. Evidence comparing hyperbaric bupivacaine, levobupivacaine, and ropivacaine is limited. METHODS: In this do...
BACKGROUND: The choice of intrathecal local anesthetic influences discharge readiness and brachytherapy success. Evidence comparing hyperbaric bupivacaine, levobupivacaine, and ropivacaine is limited. METHODS: In this double-blind, randomized crossover study, 40 women undergoing three brachytherapy sessions received, in random order, intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine 0.5%, levobupivacaine 0.5%, or bupivacaine 0.75%, with ≥1 week between sessions. Sensory and motor block onset/duration, hemodynamic variables, and complications were monitored. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square tests. RESULTS: Ropivacaine produced the fastest sensory block (2.68 ± 0.20 min) versus levobupivacaine (2.72 ± 0.18 min) and bupivacaine (2.84 ± 0.22 min); the difference between ropivacaine and bupivacaine was -0.16 min (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.25 to -0.07). Sensory block lasted 57.2 ± 8.6, 58.5 ± 9.3, and 61.3 ± 7.7 min, respectively; ropivacaine shortened duration by 4.1 min versus bupivacaine (95%CI -7.7 to -0.5). Motor block onset was fastest with levobupivacaine (4.99 ± 0.50 min), followed by bupivacaine (5.41 ± 0.35 min) and ropivacaine (5.70 ± 0.25 min). Motor block lasted 60 ± 8.8, 62 ± 8.3, and 66 ± 5.0 min, respectively. Hypotension within 10 min occurred in 17.5%, 40%, and 85% with levobupivacaine, ropivacaine, and bupivacaine; tachycardia occurred in 15%, 35%, and 80%. CONCLUSIONS: All three agents provided effective spinal anesthesia for brachytherapy. Ropivacaine offered the shortest sensory/motor blocks; levobupivacaine afforded the most stable cardiovascular profile. Bupivacaine produced longer blocks but higher hypotension/tachycardia rates.
Doses to pelvic bone marrow from intracavitary brachytherapy in carcinoma cervix: A dosimetric study.
Gandhi AK, Rastogi M, Sharma V … +7 more , Bhutia TD, Ramola D, Singh N, Das PK, Raj G, Singh P, Sharma DN
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910290 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Current dose-volume constraints for pelvic bone marrow (PBM) sparing in radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical carcinoma (LACC) typically do not account for the dose contribution from intracavitary brachythe...
PURPOSE: Current dose-volume constraints for pelvic bone marrow (PBM) sparing in radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical carcinoma (LACC) typically do not account for the dose contribution from intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT). This study aimed to quantify the radiation dose received by PBM during ICBT.Materials and Methods: This dosimetric analysis utilized computed tomography (CT) data from 15 patients with LACC treated with ICBT. Each patient received 3 weekly fractions of 7 Gy. PBM was delineated from the sacrum to the ischial tuberosities across all 45 CT sessions (three per patient). Two treatment plans were generated-Plan A (high-risk clinical target volume [HR-CTV]-based) and Plan B (Point A-based)-yielding 90 plans in total. PBM volumes receiving ≥1.5 Gy (V1.5), 1 Gy (V1), 0.75 Gy (V0.75), and 0.5 Gy (V0.5) were recorded. RESULTS: Out of 15 patients, 9 were diagnosed with stage IIB and 6 with stage IIIB (FIGO 2018). The median HR-CTV volume was 19.2 cc (range: 17-35.8 cc), with a median D90 per fraction of 6.9 Gy. The median PBM volume was 927.5 cc (range: 620.8-999.3 cc). For Plan A, the median V1.5, V1, V0.75, and V0.5 were 2.7%, 13%, 24.98%, and 53.69%, respectively, compared to 3.89%, 21.82%, 40.3%, and 67.36% for Plan B. Mean values for Plan A vs. Plan B were as follows: V1.5 (2.89% ±2.6% vs. 5.15% ± 3.57%, P = 0.058), V1 (14.14% ±9.67% vs. 20.6% ±7.82%, P = 0.054), V0.75 (29.22% ±14.99% vs. 39.47% ±11.36%, P = 0.045), and V0.5 (53.2% ±17.1% vs. 64.39% ±12.33%, P = 0.049). CONCLUSION: ICBT contributes a measurable dose to the PBM, with approximately 15-20% of PBM receiving around 1 Gy per 7 Gy fraction.
Identifying high-risk groups for recurrence in endometrial cancer: The role of ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk classification.
Elçiçek ÖF, Yalici Ö, Karaboyun K … +7 more , Şentürk MB, Karabağ S, Çavdar E, Bilen YG, Karaduman İ, Avci O, Seber ES
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910289 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify prognostic factors associated with recurrence in patients with stages I-III endometrial cancer who underwent surgical treatment. METHODS: The data of all patients who were followed...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify prognostic factors associated with recurrence in patients with stages I-III endometrial cancer who underwent surgical treatment. METHODS: The data of all patients who were followed in our clinic 2010-2024 after surgery for endometrial cancer were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were classified into four groups-low, intermediate, high-intermediate, and high risk-according to the 2016 ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO consensus risk classification system. RESULTS: A total of 200 patients were included in the study. The median follow-up duration for the cohort was 39 months (range: 7-180), and recurrence was observed in 26 patients (13%). The endometrioid subtype was present in 175 patients (87.5%). According to the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk classification, 79 patients (39.5%) were in the low-risk group, while 49 patients (24.5%) were classified as high risk. Age over 65 years (P < 0.001), a high ECOG performance score (P < 0.001), non-endometrioid histology (P < 0.001), ≥50% myometrial invasion (P = 0.002), presence of lymphovascular space invasion (P < 0.001), high tumor grade (P < 0.001), abnormal p53 status (P = 0.002), increased tumor diameter (P < 0.001), and high ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk category (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with recurrence. In multivariate analysis, high ECOG performance score (P = 0.002) and high ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk group (P = 0.011) were identified as independent predictive factors. CONCLUSION: ECOG performance status is an accessible, low-cost clinical parameter that can be effectively integrated with the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk classification to guide treatment decisions and identify high-risk patients for closer follow-up. In settings where molecular classification is not feasible, the 2016 risk stratification remains a reliable tool for therapeutic planning.
Predictive value of lymph node ratio on survival outcomes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A tertiary cancer centre experience.
Kumar N, Bagla C, Bhoriwal S … +11 more , Deo S, Saikia J, Mandal A, Pathy S, Kamboj K, Chethan R, Bharati S, Garg R, Das P, Thulkar S, Kumar S
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910288 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of esophageal cancer in the developing world. The nodal staging for it is based on the number of positive nodes at present. Lymph node ratio (LN ratio)...
INTRODUCTION: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of esophageal cancer in the developing world. The nodal staging for it is based on the number of positive nodes at present. Lymph node ratio (LN ratio) has recently been recognized as an independent predictor of survival in esophageal cancer. We wanted to evaluate the impact of LN ratio of survival in patients undergoing esophagectomy at our center. METHODS: A total of 164 patients undergoing esophagectomy for SCC between 2015 and 2022 at a tertiary care center were included in this study. LN ratio was defined as the number of positive nodes divided by total nodes harvested. The effect of LN ratio on survival was analyzed using Youden's index to determine cutoff and Spearman's test for correlation. RESULTS: The mean age was 53.8 years. Mckeown's esophagectomy was done in 70.7% patients, and 34.7% were node positive. Mean lymph node harvest was 15.07. The median recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 5.63 months, and the overall survival (OS) was 12.23 months. Higher LN ratio was associated with worse RFS on univariate analysis (P < 0.001). A significant inverse correlation of LN ratio with RFS (P = 0.005) and OS (P = 0.020) was seen. ROC analysis showed a cutoff of 0.3 to predict worse survival. CONCLUSION: The LN ratio correlates well with OS and RFS and is prognostic for esophageal SCC. Larger studies are needed to determine an exact cutoff value for nodal staging to use it effectively as a predictor of survival.
Regulatory effects of miRNA in epithelial ovarian cancer patients: A case-control study from Eastern India.
Kumari S, Balamurugan R, Majumdar SKD … +1 more , Muduly DK
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910287 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Current biomarkers of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) lack the required sensitivity and specificity for early detection. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in cancer progression, and their serum expression c...
INTRODUCTION: Current biomarkers of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) lack the required sensitivity and specificity for early detection. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in cancer progression, and their serum expression could serve as a non-invasive diagnostic tool. This study focuses on evaluating the expression of serum miR-200a, miR-200b, and miR-200c and their association with clinico-pathological characteristics in EOC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-eight EOC patients and 96 age-matched healthy women participated. RNA was extracted from serum, and reverse transcription followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assessed miRNA (miR) expression. Correlations with clinico-pathological parameters, including FIGO staging and tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) grading, were explored. RESULTS: Serum levels of miR-200a, miR-200b, and miR-200c were significantly higher in EOC compared to controls (P < 0.01). When correlated with clinico-pathological parameters, miR-200c positively correlated with cancer severity (FIGO staging and TNM grading). In contrast, miR-200a and miR-200b showed no significant associations with clinical severity. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated miR-200a_Ct as the most promising parameter (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.997, P < 0.001), with high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (99%) at a cut-off value of >19.50. CONCLUSION: The study reveals the overexpression of miR-200a, miR-200b, and miR-200c in EOC patients. MiR-200a and miR-200b expression was correlating with early stage, while miR-200c emerged as a prognostic marker, correlating with cancer severity. This suggests regulatory role; however, further investigation into epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-related factors is warranted to have a deeper understanding of the differential expression of miRNAs. The study underscores the diagnostic potential of serum miRNAs in EOC and the need for a reliable early detection method.
Estimation of set-up errors and planning target volume margin in craniospinal irradiation: A prospective study.
Dhayalan S, Madan R, Oinam AS … +11 more , Goyal S, Kumar N, Tomar P, Khosla D, Kapoor R, Singh M, Avasthy A, Sahoo SK, Gendle C, Aggarwal A, Karthigeyan M
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910286 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cranio-spinal irradiation (CSI) planning is complex due to large target volume and numerous organs at risk (OARs). In the index study, we assessed set-up errors and daily shifts during CSI using cone-beam com...
BACKGROUND: Cranio-spinal irradiation (CSI) planning is complex due to large target volume and numerous organs at risk (OARs). In the index study, we assessed set-up errors and daily shifts during CSI using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) on a conventional linear accelerator. The aim of the study is to calculate the planning target volume (PTV) margin for CSI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CSI was planned by the volumetric modulated arc technique (VMAT). CBCT was taken daily for the first 3 days and twice weekly thereafter at the level of sella, T1, and L3 vertebrae. The CBCT images were coregistered with planning CT images to check daily shifts and to calculate systematic (Σ) and random errors (σ). PTV margins were calculated using Van Herk's (2.5Σ +0.7σ) formula. RESULTS: A total of 20 medulloblastoma patients were analyzed. In the absence of daily imaging, the required PTV margins along lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions were 7.8, 7.3, and 7.4 mm (8 mm isotropic margin); 10.1, 11.5, and 8.7 mm (12 mm isotropic margin); and 14.7, 12.4, and 10.6 mm (15 mm isotropic margin) for brain, upper spine, and lower spine, respectively. CONCLUSION: As the set-up inaccuracies increase towards lower spine, a uniform PTV margin risks missing the target or overexposing OARs to radiation, necessitating the need for the differential PTV margin. We calculated the isotropic PTV margin of 8 mm, 12 mm, and 15 mm in the brain, upper spine, and lower spine, respectively, in the absence of daily imaging. The margins can be further reduced using daily image guidance such as CBCT to minimize radiation exposure to surrounding normal tissue.
Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein-1 expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with clinical correlation. A study in North East India.
Yepthomi N, Longkumer M, Kikhi K … +3 more , Leivon S, Momin C, Kikon SS
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910285 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant mucosal epithelial neoplasm covering the nasopharynx with varied geographical distribution. A number of etiological factors have been associated with the developm...
BACKGROUND: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant mucosal epithelial neoplasm covering the nasopharynx with varied geographical distribution. A number of etiological factors have been associated with the development of NPC, and infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) being a long-recognized contributor. The study aims to correlate the status of EBV infection in relation to NPC within the region. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study on histologically confirmed, archived tissues from January 2020 to December 2024 was conducted. Immunohistochemistry expression of latent membrane protein-1 (LMP-1) was used to detect EBV infection in the tissues. RESULTS: A total of 112 cases were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 46.13 years with a male-to-female ratio of 2.6:1. The highest number of EBV-positive cases occurred in the 36-45 year age group. About 24.1% of the 112 samples tested positive for LMP-1, all of which were non-keratinizing carcinoma. Non-keratinizing carcinoma was the most common histopathological subtype (n = 109; 97.3%). Keratinizing had three cases, representing the remaining 2.7%. No cases of basaloid variant were recorded. The majority of LMP-1 positive cases were locally advanced. CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of NPC, particularly non-keratinizing histological subtype, positive for LMP-1 by immunohistochemistry were locally advanced. This method may serve as a practical approach for detecting EBV infection in tissue biopsies, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Patterns and outcomes of radiotherapy in octogenarian and nonagenarian patients: Experience from a Tertiary Care Center in North India.
Thakur V, Prashar P, Sharma H … +3 more , Vias P, Thakur A, Pandey A
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910284 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The elderly population (≥80 years) represents a growing demographic in oncology, yet remains underrepresented in clinical trials. With advancements in radiotherapy (RT) techniques, its role in managing cancer...
BACKGROUND: The elderly population (≥80 years) represents a growing demographic in oncology, yet remains underrepresented in clinical trials. With advancements in radiotherapy (RT) techniques, its role in managing cancer in octogenarians and nonagenarians warrants evaluation. OBJECTIVE: To assess treatment patterns, outcomes, and prognostic factors in elderly cancer patients receiving RT at our institute. METHODS: This retrospective study included 102 patients aged ≥80 years who underwent RT between 2022 and 2024. Data on demographics, tumor characteristics, RT intent and techniques, and outcomes were collected. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox regression. RESULTS: Median patient age was 82 years; 70.6% were male. Head and neck cancers (36.3%) were most prevalent. Curative intent RT was delivered in 40% of patients, with hypofractionated regimens used predominantly in palliative settings. The two-year OS and PFS were 52% and 47%, respectively. On univariate analysis, Karnofsky performance status (KPS > 70%), treatment intent, and RT dose >30 Gy were significantly associated with better OS and PFS (P < 0.05). However, multivariate analysis identified only KPS >70% as an independent predictor for both OS (hazard ratio [HR] =0.408, P = 0.04) and PFS (HR = 0.360, P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: RT is a feasible and effective treatment modality in cancer patients aged ≥ 80 years, particularly in those with good performance status. These findings advocate for individualized treatment decisions based on functional status rather than chronological age and emphasize the need for more age-inclusive clinical research.
Aging and the global cancer burden: A population-based cohort study and predictive modelling analysis using the global cancer database.
Pustake M, Ganiyani MA, Joshi S … +4 more , Patel A, Khosla AA, Gul A, Garje R
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910283 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: As the global population is aging, the impact of cancer among the elderly have become critical areas of study. This demographic shift is expected to continue, necessitating detailed analysis for effective pla...
BACKGROUND: As the global population is aging, the impact of cancer among the elderly have become critical areas of study. This demographic shift is expected to continue, necessitating detailed analysis for effective planning and resource allocation in cancer control and prevention. This research aims to predict the rise in cancer rates among older adults across various United Nations (UN) regions from 1970 to 2050, aiming to highlight the significant challenges posed by cancer within this demographic. METHODS: Data on cancer incidence and mortality were extracted from the Global Cancer Database (GLOBOCAN), of both current statistics and projections up to 2050. Additionally, world population figures were obtained from United Nations population estimates to analyze demographic shifts between younger and older populations. A time-series analysis was conducted to calculate and compare trends in cancer burden among the elderly compared to the young across various regions and Human Development Index (HDI) categories as defined by the UN. With the predictive modelling, we calculated the quantitative cancer statistics, including rate ratios and case fatality rates (per 100,000), and compared incidence and mortality rates along with demographic and socioeconomic data to assess disparities and temporal trends. RESULTS: Cancer incidence and mortality rates are markedly higher in the elderly across UN regions. In Africa, the incidence rate for the elderly is 748.59 per 100,000, compared to 59.41 for the young, while mortality rates are 582.82 for the elderly versus 34.54 for the young. In Northern America, the elderly incidence is 2623.83 per 100,000, with mortality at 800.70, compared to 308.35 and 58.55 for the young, respectively. Prostate cancer incidence among elderly men is significant, while breast cancer is predominant in elderly women. By 2050, Northern America's elderly incidence is projected to rise to 2905.74 per 100,000, with mortality increasing to 961.07. Latin America anticipates a rise in elderly incidence from 1257.84 to 1313.00 per 100,000 and mortality from 732.15 to 782.65. CONCLUSION: The analysis indicates significant demographic shifts, with the elderly population projected to markedly increase across all UN regions from 1970 to 2050, highlighting the urgent need for targeted healthcare strategies to address the rising cancer burden, particularly in higher HDI regions. By analyzing the interplay between demographic shifts, socioeconomic factors, and cancer trends, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers, advocating for proactive planning and resource allocation to effectively tackle the anticipated rise in cancer incidence and mortality among the elderly.
Impact of the revised FIGO 2018 staging system on survival outcomes with respect to prognostic factors in cervical cancer patients treated in a tertiary care cancer center in South Karnataka.
Sindhu KR, Pranitha SL, Arpitha S … +2 more , Narayanan GS, Namratha K
J Cancer Res Ther · 2026 Jan · PMID 41910282 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is a leading malignancy among Indian women. The FIGO 2018 staging system introduced new substages to improve prognostication. This study evaluated survival outcomes and prognostic factors in p...
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is a leading malignancy among Indian women. The FIGO 2018 staging system introduced new substages to improve prognostication. This study evaluated survival outcomes and prognostic factors in patients staged as per FIGO 2018. METHODS: A retrospective review of 187 patients treated from 2018 to 2020 was conducted. After excluding 35 patients who lost to follow-up, 152 patients were analyzed with a median follow-up of 54 months for 3-year overall survival (OS) in relation to stage, age, histology, and overall treatment time (OTT) and the overall progression-free survival (PFS) was analyzed. RESULTS: The median age was 50 years. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histology (95.4%), with Stage IIB being most frequent (50%). Most patients (93%) received 3DCRT. The 3-year OS and PFS were 64.5% and 73.2%, respectively. OS varied significantly by stage (P < 0.001), with better survival in stage IIIC1 than in IIIB, and poorer outcomes in IIIC2 compared to IVA. Age, histology, and OTT did not significantly impact OS. Nodal boost showed no OS benefit in the IIIC1 subgroup. CONCLUSION: The FIGO 2018 staging effectively reflects survival variation in cervical cancer. Notably, stage IIIC1 had better outcomes than IIIB, while IIIC2 had worse outcomes compared to IVA. Further studies are needed to refine treatment for node-positive disease.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe