Comparison of the effectiveness of proton and photon therapy in patients with brain tumors

Owing to the development of molecular genetics, the role of radiation therapy and chemotherapy in treatment of patients with glioma (WHO Grade I-IV) has become more understandable. The overall survival among glioma patients has increased. As overall survival increases, oncologists are more likely to detect manifestations of late radiation toxicity that has a huge impact on Quality of Life in patients who have undergone radiation therapy in the past. In this regard, the question of finding more adequate radiation therapy techniques remains relevant. Photon radiation therapy is the standard method; however, considering dosimetric advantages of proton therapy over photon therapy, its widespread use can potentially lead to the increased overall survival, decreased number of late radiation-induced complications and improved quality of life in the post-radiation period. This article presents some comparative characteristics of proton and photon radiation therapy in patients with gliomas (WHO Grade I-IV). Dosimetry characteristics of protons in tissues were compared, data showing differences in survival of patients treated with photons versus patients treated with protons were presented, and general information on early and late radiation-induced toxicity arising from the treatment by these methods was disclosed.