Proton versus photon craniospinal irradiation for adult medulloblastoma: a dosimetric, toxicity, and exploratory cost analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to determine whether proton craniospinal irradiation (CSI) decreased dose to normal tissue and resulted in less toxicity than photon CSI for adult patients. This single institution retrospective analyzed differences in radiation doses, acute toxicity, and cost between proton and CSI for adult medulloblastoma patients. Of 39 total patients, 20 were treated with photon CSI prior to 2015, and 19 were treated with proton CSI thereafter. Median age was 28 years (range 18-66). Molecular subtype was most commonly sonic hedgehog (68%). Patients most commonly received 36 Gy CSI in 20 fractions with a boost to 54-55.8 Gy (92%). Proton CSI delivered significantly lower mean doses to cochleae, lacrimal glands, lens, parotid glands, pharyngeal constrictors, esophagus, lungs, liver, and skin (all p< 0.001). Patients receiving proton CSI had significantly lower rates of acute dysphagia of any grade (5% vs. 35%, p= 0.044) and decreased median weight loss during radiation (+1.0 vs. -2.8 kg, p= 0.011). Weight loss was associated with acute hospitalization (p= 0.009). Median follow-up was 2.9 and 12.9 years for proton and photon patients, respectively, limiting late toxicity and outcome comparisons. At last follow-up, five photon patients had died (two of progressive disease, three without recurrence ages 41-63) and 21% had experienced major cardiovascular events. At 10 years, 89% were alive and 82% were recurrence free. This study demonstrates dosimetric improvements with proton CSI, potentially leading to decreased acute toxicity including dysphagia and weight loss during treatment.