Implementation of 26 Gy in five fractions over 1 week adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer: Prospective report of acute skin toxicity and consideration of resource implications.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

In March 2020, a 1-week adjuvant breast radiotherapy schedule, 26 Gy in 5 fractions, was adopted to reduce the risk of COVID19 for staff and patients. This study quantifies acute toxicity rates and the effect on linac capacity.

Materials and methods

This is a report of consecutive patients receiving ultrafractionated breast radiotherapy ( ± sequential boost) Mar-Aug 2020. Virtual consultations assessed acute skin toxicity during treatment and weeks 1, 2, 3 and 4 post treatment using CTCAE V5 scoring criteria. The number of linac minutes saved was estimated accounting for boost and DIBH use.

Results

In total, 128/135 (95%) patients, including 31/33 boost patients, completed at least 3/5 assessments. 0/128 (0%) reported moist desquamation not confined to skin fo

SUBMITTER: Nugent K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9756602 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature