The use of proton-beam therapy in the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer

Figures & data

Figure 1. Depth–dose distribution of proton and photon beam.

SOBP: Spread out of Bragg peak.

Figure 2. Dose distribution of proton beam therapy for stage I non-small-cell lung cancer.

Because of the low lung density, the doses do not fall off sharply at the target depth. Also, the edge at the end of the beam range is irregular, because the scapula and ribs are in the pathway. The beam range of the part that passes through bones is smaller than that of the part of the beam that avoids bone.

Figure 3. Dose distribution (A) and a CT image 1 year after proton beam therapy (B) for stage IIIB non-small-cell lung cancer.

The doses to the anterior lung and esophagus were decreased, and fibrosis was limited in the posterior lung.