Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of raster-scanned intensity-controlled carbon ion therapy (ICCT) in the treatment of mucosal melanoma of the paranasal sinus.
Methods: Patients received combined intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plus carbon ion (C12). Records of 18 consecutive patients treated between 2009 and 2013 were analyzed retrospectively regarding toxicity (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 4), treatment response (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors [RECIST]), and control/survival rates.
Results: Most patients had advanced disease (T4, 94%; gross residual disease, 78%). Median dose was 74 GyE (median boost volume = 157 mL). C12 treatments were planned as ICCT, no concurrent chemotherapy was administered. Grade III or higher late toxicity was not observed. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and locoregional control at 3 years were 16.2%, 0%, and 58.3%, respectively (median follow-up, 18 months). Resection status did not impact locoregional control or survival rates.
Conclusion: ICCT results in promising locoregional control at mild toxicity. OS is poor because of the occurrence of distant metastases; therefore, addition of systemic components to primary treatment should be investigated. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Head Neck 38: E1445-E1451, 2016.
Keywords: carbon ion (C12); carbon ion therapy; intensity-controlled carbon ion therapy (ICCT); mucosal melanoma; paranasal sinus.
© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.