Stereotactic radiotherapy in the treatment of lung cancer – current prospective

Abstract

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is the standard treatment for early-stage inoperable non-small cell lung cancer. SBRT achieves a high local control rate (74–100%), preserves the quality of life, and the treatment is of low-toxicity. Different fractionation regimens are used, depending on the localization and size of the tumor, the proximity of the organs at risk, and the general condition of the patient. The radiobiology behind SBRT is largely unknown, precisely defined radiation doses and the number of fractions are still a matter of debate. Numerous studies are ongoing regarding the standardization of SBRT in lung cancer treatment.

Keywords: stereotactic body radiotherapy; lung cancer; early stage