[Multimodalities imaging for target volume definition in radiotherapy]

Bull Cancer. 2006 Dec;93(12):1175-82.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Modern radiotherapy delivery nowadays relies on tridimensional, conformal techniques. The aim is to better target the tumor while decreasing the dose administered to surrounding normal tissues. Gold standard imaging modality remains computed-tomography (CT) scanner. However, the intrinsic lack of contrast between soft tissues leads to high variabilities in target definition. The risks are : a geographical miss with tumor underirradiation on the one hand, and a tumor overestimation with undue normal tissues irradiation on the other hand. Alternative imaging modalities like magnetic resonance imaging and functional positron emission tomography could theoretically overcome the lack of soft tissues contrast of CT. However, the fusion of the different imaging modalities images requires the use of sophisticated computer algorithms. We will briefly review them. We will then review the different clinical results reported with multi-modalities imaging for tumors of the head, neck, lung, esophagus, cervix and lymphomas. Finally, we will briefly give practical recommendations for multi-modality imaging in radiotherapy treatment planning process.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / radiotherapy
  • Diagnostic Imaging* / methods
  • Diagnostic Imaging* / standards
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Lung Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Lymphoma / diagnosis
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Positron-Emission Tomography
  • Radiation Injuries / prevention & control
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted
  • Radiotherapy, Conformal* / methods
  • Radiotherapy, Conformal* / standards
  • Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated / methods
  • Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated / standards
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / radiotherapy