The lancet oncology
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The lancet oncology · Feb 2017
ReviewPrevention of radiotherapy-induced neurocognitive dysfunction in survivors of paediatric brain tumours: the potential role of modern imaging and radiotherapy techniques.
Neurocognitive dysfunction is the leading cause of reduced quality of life in long-term survivors of paediatric brain tumours. Radiotherapy is one of the main contributors to neurocognitive sequelae. Current approaches for prevention and reduction of neurocognitive dysfunction include avoidance of radiotherapy in young children and reduction of the radiotherapy dose and volume of brain irradiated. ⋯ Radiotherapy techniques for photon therapy have also evolved, with widespread use of techniques such as image-guided radiotherapy, volumetric modulated arc therapy, helical tomotherapy, and adaptive radiotherapy. The number of proton beam and heavy ion therapy facilities is increasing worldwide and there is great enthusiasm for clinical use of advanced MRI-guided radiotherapy systems. Here, we review the potential role of modern imaging and innovative radiotherapy techniques in minimisation of neurocognitive sequelae in children with brain tumours, and discuss various strategies to integrate these advances to drive further research.
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The lancet oncology · Feb 2017
ReviewNon-transplant therapies for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and Child-Pugh-Turcotte class B cirrhosis.
Underlying liver cirrhosis is present in most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver transplantation is the only treatment strategy to cure both diseases. All other hepatocellular carcinoma treatment strategies have to take into account residual liver function that concurs with the patient's prognosis and might limit their feasibility. ⋯ In this setting, the decision for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment requires a comprehensive assessment of liver function, not restricted to the CPT classification, in addition to a careful evaluation of the prognostic effect of hepatocellular carcinoma compared with cirrhosis. In this Review, we provide an overview of the literature regarding the benefits and harms of non-transplant therapies in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and CPT-B cirrhosis.