Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy: is less fractionation more effective in adrenal and renal malignant lesions?

World J Urol. 2024 Jul 24;42(1):435. doi: 10.1007/s00345-024-05140-9.

Abstract

Purpose: Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has become an excellent non-invasive alternative for many patients with primary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and adrenal malignancies (AM). The aims of this study were to analyse how tumor-, patient- and treatment-related factors may influence the outcomes and side effects of SBRT and to assess its benefits as an alternative to surgery.

Methods: This retrospective, multicenter study included 25 lesions in 23 patients treated with SBRT using different devices (LINAC, CyberKnife® and Tomotherapy®). A multivariate linear regression was used for the statistical study.

Results: Local control time was higher than six months in more than 87% of patients and treatment response was complete for 73.68%. There was an overall 2-year survival of 40% and none of the deaths were secondary to renal or adrenal local progression. Patients treated with lower total radiation dose (mean [m] = 55 Gy) but less fractions with more dose per fraction (> 8.5 Gy) showed better outcome. Patients with previous chemotherapy and surgery treatments also showed higher complete response and disease-free survival (> 6 months).

Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of ultra-hypofractionated regimens with higher doses per session. Thus, the referral of patients with RCC and AM to Radiotherapy and Oncology departments should be encouraged supporting the role of SBRT as a minimally invasive and outpatient treatment.

Keywords: Adrenal malignant lesion; Renal malignant lesion; Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR); Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT); Toxicity.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell* / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell* / surgery
  • Dose Fractionation, Radiation
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Kidney Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Kidney Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiosurgery* / methods
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Survival Rate
  • Treatment Outcome