Internal radiation therapy for malignant neoplasm
Yokoyama, K.; Kinuya, S.; Tonami, N.
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer and ChemoTherapy 26(6): 768-774
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0385-0684 PMID: 10410145 Document Number: 506218
Internal radiation therapy selectively targets beta- or alpha-emitting radionuclides to the area of the tumor tissue, and is therefore capable of treating disease regardless of the location and number of foci. The biological effect of internal radiation therapy is thought to be different from that of conventional external beam radiation. Thyroid cancer: The local recurrence and metastatic lesions from differentiated thyroid cancers can be controlled with 131I administration. Even though the patient does not have macroscopic disease, 131I is also utilized for thyroid remnant ablation in locally advanced cases. Recently, the maximum tolerable dose can be calculated based on the dosimetry of each patient, and safely administered. The therapeutic effect of this method is superior to the fixed dose method. 131I-MIBG: 131I-MIBG is taken up by sympathetic neurons as well as a group of tumors originating in the neural crest, especially phecromocytomas and neuroblastomas. The various symptoms caused by the hypersecretions of hormone-producing tumors can be improved. Pain palliation of bone metastases: Pain palliation using 89Sr is a very promising option in treating patients with painful bone metastases. The pain palliation mechanism of 89Sr is different from other drugs; therefore, complimentary usage is reasonable. The symptomatical improvement can last for several months, thus helping to maintain the quality of life of the patient.