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Review
. 2018 Apr;28(2):97-107.
doi: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2017.11.001.

Protons vs Photons for Brain and Skull Base Tumors

Safia K Ahmed  1 , Paul D Brown  2 , Robert L Foote  1
Affiliations
Review

Protons vs Photons for Brain and Skull Base Tumors

Safia K Ahmed et al. Semin Radiat Oncol. 2018 Apr.

Abstract

The physical characteristics of proton therapy result in steeper dose gradients and superior dose conformality compared to photon therapy. These properties render proton therapy ideal for skull base tumors requiring dose escalation for optimal tumor control, and may also be beneficial for brain tumors as a means of mitigating radiation-related adverse effects. This review summarizes the literature regarding the role of proton therapy compared to photon therapy in the treatment of adult brain and skull base tumors.

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