Proton Therapy for Nasopharyngeal Cancer: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal cancer presents unique challenges due to its complex anatomical location and proximity to critical organs. This systematic review examines the relevance of proton therapy in treating nasopharyngeal cancer. Twenty-six articles met the inclusion criteria, comprising conceptual studies, practical evaluations of proton therapy, and assessments of acute toxicities. Proton therapy demonstrated comparable tumor conformation and lower doses to organs at risk (OARs) compared to intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Preliminary evidence suggests that proton therapy is at least as effective as IMRT and may be less toxic. Proton therapy shows promise for primary treatment, boosting after photon therapy, salvage situations, and pediatric populations, but careful attention to OAR doses is crucial. However, large randomized clinical trials are needed to establish its superiority and assess long-term outcomes.