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Radiation Therapy

The successful radiation treatment of cancer depends critically on knowledge and control of the precise amount and location of radiation given to a patient and on the opportunity for therapists to exchange this information and the results achieved. With respect to radiation measurement the ICRU published several early reports recommending dosimetry protocols for photon and electron-beam therapy [Reports 17 (1970), 23 (1973), and 24 (1976)] and later for new types of radiations. In that respect, ICRU Report 45 (1989) dealt with clinical dosimetry for fast neutrons, and a similar report with protons [ICRU Report 59 (1998)]. ICRU Report 64 (2001) updated the dosimetry of high-energy photon beams. Fundamental data for radiation therapy were covered in Report 37 (1984) on Stopping Powers for Electrons and Positrons, Report 49 on Stopping Powers and Ranges of Protons and Alpha Particles, and Report 73 (2005) on Stopping of Ions Heavier than Helium. ICRU Report 72 (2004) discussed Dosimetry of Beta Rays and Low-Energy Photons for Brachytherapy with Sealed Sources. Progress in radiation therapy requires the ability to compare clinical results achieved in different centers using different radiation modalities and protocols. Thus a common language for reporting fractionation schedules, doses, and techniques is required for optimum treatment. The ICRU has devoted considerable effort in that direction. Report 50 (1993) on Prescribing, Recording, and Reporting Photon-Beam Therapy provides appropriate guidance for defining tumor, target and planning volumes and gives recommendations for complete reporting of photon treatments. A supplement, published as ICRU Report 62 (1999), updated these recommendations. The concepts and definitions in these reports remain the basis of reports adapting these principles to a series of reports on Prescribing, Recording, and Reporting different therapies: Electron-Beam Therapy [ICRU Report 71 (2004)], Proton-Beam Therapy [ICRU Report 78 (2007)], Intensity-Modulated Photon-Beam Therapy (IMRT) [ICRU Report 83 (2010)]. Three further reports in the series are in preparation: Ion-beam Beam Therapy, Stereotactic Treatments with Small Photon Beams and Brachytherapy for Cancer of the Cervix. The latter report will update the report on Dose and Volume Specification for Reporting Intracavitary Therapy in Gynecology [Report 38 (1985)]. A similar report on Dose and Volume Specification for Reporting Interstitial Therapy was published as Report 58 (1997). Many of the methods of prescribing, recording, and reporting doses and volumes are common to all therapy modalities.

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