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Pazdrowski J, Polańska A, Kaźmierska J, Kowalczyk MJ, Szewczyk M, Niewinski P, Golusiński W, Dańczak-Pazdrowska A. The Assessment of the Long-Term Impact of Radiotherapy on Biophysical Skin Properties in Patients after Head and Neck Cancer. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:739. [PMID: 38792923 PMCID: PMC11122895 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Chronic radiotherapy-induced skin injury (cRISI) is an irreversible and progressive condition that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Despite the limited literature available on the assessment of the epidermal barrier in cRISI, there is a consensus that appropriate skincare, including the use of emollients, is the primary therapeutic approach for this group of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical properties of the skin during the late period (at least 90 days) following radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancer. Materials and Methods: This was a single-center prospective non-randomized study. It involved the analysis of 16 adult patients with head and neck cancer who underwent RT at the Greater Poland Cancer Center, along with 15 healthy volunteers. The study and control groups were matched for gender and age (p = 0.51). Clinical assessment, based on the LENT-SOMA scale, was conducted for all patients. Evaluation of the skin's biophysical properties included: an analysis of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), and skin visualization using high-frequency ultrasonography (HF-USG). Results: A significantly higher TEWL was observed in the irradiated area compared to the control area in the study group (p = 0.004). However, there was no statistically significant difference in SCH (p = 0.073). Additionally, no significant difference was observed in the values of TEWL and SCH in the irradiated area between the group of patients with and without clinically obvious RISI (p = 0.192 and p = 0.415, respectively). The skin thickness of the irradiated area, assessed by HF-USG, did not differ significantly from the skin thickness of the control area (p = 0.638). Furthermore, no difference in skin thickness was observed in patients with clinical features of cRISI in the irradiated and control areas (p = 0.345). The mean time after RT was 6.1 years. Conclusions: This study marks the first demonstration of epidermal barrier damage in patients in the long term following RT for head and neck cancer. The impairment of the epidermal barrier was observed independently of evident cRISI features. This observation underscores the necessity to recommend appropriate skin care, including the use of emollients, for all patients following RT. We also suggest that HF-USG examination is generally inconclusive in determining the degree of skin damage in the late period after RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Pazdrowski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland; (M.S.); (P.N.); (W.G.)
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Adriana Polańska
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.P.)
| | - Joanna Kaźmierska
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland;
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Michał J. Kowalczyk
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-355 Poznan, Poland; (A.P.)
| | - Mateusz Szewczyk
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland; (M.S.); (P.N.); (W.G.)
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Patryk Niewinski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland; (M.S.); (P.N.); (W.G.)
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
| | - Wojciech Golusiński
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-866 Poznan, Poland; (M.S.); (P.N.); (W.G.)
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 61-866 Poznan, Poland
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Wang J, Zhou B, Yang X, Tridandapani S, Lin J, Torres MA, Liu T. Ultrasound-Based Grading System for Radiation-Induced Acute Breast Toxicity. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:1307-1317. [PMID: 36583524 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To introduce an ultrasound-based scoring system for radiation-induced breast toxicity and test its reliability. METHODS Breast ultrasound (BUS) was performed on 32 patients receiving breast radiotherapy (RT) to assess the radiation-induced acute toxicity. For each patient, both the untreated and irradiated breasts were scanned at five locations: 12:00, 3:00, 6:00, 9:00, and tumor bed to evaluate for heterogenous responses to radiation within the entire breast. In total, 314 images were analyzed. Based on ultrasound findings such as skin thickening, dermis boundary irregularity, and subcutaneous edema, a 4-level, Likert-like grading scheme is proposed: none (G0), mild (G1), moderate (G2), and severe (G3) toxicity. Two ultrasound experts graded the severity of breast toxicity independently and reported the inter- and intra-observer reliability of the grading system. Imaging findings were compared with standard clinical toxicity assessments using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). RESULTS The inter-observer Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83-0.90, P < .001). For intra-observer repeatability, the PCC of the repeated scores was 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78-0.87, P < .001). Imaging findings were compared with standard clinical toxicity assessments using CTCAE scales. The PCC between BUS scores and CTCAE results was 0.62 (95% CI: 0.35-0.80, P < .001). Among all locations, 6:00 and tumor bed showed significantly greater toxicity compared with 12:00 (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS BUS can investigate the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue changes after RT. This BUS-based grading system can complement subjective clinical assessments of radiation-induced breast toxicity with cutaneous and subcutaneous sonographic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Boran Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Srini Tridandapani
- Department of Radiology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jolinta Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mylin A Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Chen W, Lu W, Yuan Y, Li L, Deng H, Ye X. The role of ultrasound quantitative parameters in the assessment of acute radiodermatitis after breast-conserving surgery. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2023:7153713. [PMID: 37154691 DOI: 10.1093/jrr/rrad029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the severity of acute radiodermatitis (ARD) by ultrasound quantitative parameters and to try to identify the influencing factors of skin toxicity. A total of 55 patients who underwent radiotherapy after unilateral breast-conserving surgery (BCS) were included in the study. The irradiated side of the breast was used as the research object and the quantitative ultrasound parameters (skin thickness, shear wave elasticity) were evaluated before radiotherapy, every week during radiotherapy. Two weeks after radiotherapy, the patients were divided into two groups, according to the World Health Organization scoring standard: mild (0-2 grade) and severe (3-4 grade). The differences in the parameters between the groups and the changes during radiotherapy were compared, and the relationship between these parameters and the severity of ARD was analyzed. In addition, some clinical factors that may affect ARD were also included in our study. Ninety-eight percent of patients developed different degrees of ARD, and Group 2 accounted for ~31%. At the end of 5 weeks of radiotherapy, the difference in thickness between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in the elastic modulus of breast skin between the two groups (P > 0.05). Body mass index >25 kg/m2, breast thickness ≥18 mm, skin basic elastic modulus <23 kPa and skin thickness increment >0.3 mm were considered to be associated with severe skin reactions (P < 0.05). Ultrasound can be a useful tool for the non-invasive and objective assessment of skin changes during radiotherapy, documenting quantitative changes in the skin of breast cancer patients following BCS undergoing radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqin Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Wenjuan Lu
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Ya Yuan
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Hongyan Deng
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Xinhua Ye
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
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Zhou B, Wang J, Yang X, Henry S, Lin JY, Torres MA, Liu T. Ultrasound Histogram Assessment of Acute Breast Toxicity After Breast Cancer Radiation Therapy: A Prospective Longitudinal Study. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:309-317. [PMID: 36441032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Accurate assessment of radiation-induced breast toxicity is crucial for the management of breast radiation therapy (RT). Standard assessment of breast toxicity based on clinicians' visual inspection and palpation has considerable inter- and intra-observer variability. To overcome this challenge, we present an ultrasound histogram method that objectively evaluates radiation-induced breast toxicity longitudinally. In a prospective study, patients enrolled (n = 67) received ultrasound scans at four time points: prior to RT, last day of RT, 3-4 wk post-RT and 9-12-wk post-RT. Ultrasound scans were acquired at five locations (tumor bed and 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock) on both breasts. Two hundred sixty-four ultrasound scans and 2640 B-mode images were analyzed. The histogram differences between irradiated and contralateral breasts were calculated to evaluate radiation-induced breast changes. On the basis of the B-mode images, the severity of breast toxicity was graded as absent, mild, moderate or severe. The performance of the histogram method was assessed with the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The areas under the ROC curve ranged from 0.78 to 0.9 (sensitivity: 0.88-0.96, specificity: 0.53-0.83) at the lower quadrant for differentiating absent/mild from moderate/severe toxicity at various time points. This study provides preliminary evidence that ultrasound histogram differences can serve as an imaging biomarker to longitudinally assess radiation-induced acute toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boran Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Simone Henry
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jolinta Y Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mylin A Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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Hussein FA, Manan HA, Mustapha AWMM, Sidek K, Yahya N. Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Skin Toxicity Following Radiotherapy of Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13439. [PMID: 36294025 PMCID: PMC9603505 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present review aimed to systematically review skin toxicity changes following breast cancer radiotherapy (RT) using ultrasound (US). PubMed and Scopus databases were searched according to PRISMA guidelines. The characteristics of the selected studies, measured parameters, US skin findings, and their association with clinical assessments were extracted. Seventeen studies were included with a median sample size of 29 (range 11-166). There were significant US skin changes in the irradiated skin compared to the nonirradiated skin or baseline measurements. The most observed change is skin thickening secondary to radiation-induced oedema, except one study found skin thinning after pure postmastectomy RT. However, eight studies reported skin thickening predated RT attributed to axillary surgery. Four studies used US radiofrequency (RF) signals and found a decrease in the hypodermis's Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC). Three studies reported decreased dermal echogenicity and poor visibility of the dermis-subcutaneous fat boundary (statistically analysed by one report). The present review revealed significant ultrasonographic skin toxicity changes in the irradiated skin most commonly skin thickening. However, further studies with large cohorts, appropriate US protocol, and baseline evaluation are needed. Measuring other US skin parameters and statistically evaluating the degree of the association with clinical assessments are also encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Alaa Hussein
- Makmal Pemprosesan Imej Kefungsian (Functional Image Processing Laboratory), Department of Radiology, University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Hanani Abdul Manan
- Makmal Pemprosesan Imej Kefungsian (Functional Image Processing Laboratory), Department of Radiology, University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Department of Radiology and Intervensi, Hospital Pakar Kanak-Kanak (Children Specialist Hospital), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Aida W. M. Mohd Mustapha
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Khairiyah Sidek
- Department of Radiotherapy, University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Noorazrul Yahya
- Diagnostic Imaging & Radiotherapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Diagnostic & Applied Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
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Alcorn SR, Corbin KS, Shumway DA. Integrating the Patient's Voice in Toxicity Reporting and Treatment Decisions for Breast Radiotherapy. Semin Radiat Oncol 2022; 32:207-220. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2022.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Wang H, Donnan P, Macaskill EJ, Jordan L, Thompson A, Evans A. A pre-operative prognostic model predicting all cause and cause specific mortality for women presenting with invasive breast cancer. Breast 2021; 61:11-21. [PMID: 34891035 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to develop a pre-operative prognostic model based on known pre-operative factors. METHODS A database of ultrasound (US) lesions undergoing biopsy documented US lesion size, stiffness, and patient source prospectively. Women with invasive cancer presenting between 2010 and 2015 were the study group. Breast and axillary core results and ER, PR and HER receptor status were collected prospectively. Assessment of US skin thickening, US distal enhancement and presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) was performed retrospectively. Patient survival and cause of death were ascertained from computer records. Predictive models for (i) all-cause mortality (ACM) and (ii) breast cancer death (BCD) were built and then validated using bootstrap k-fold cross-validation. A comparison of predictive performance was made between a full cause-specific Cox model, a sub cause-specific Cox model, and a full Fine-Gray sub-distribution hazard model. RESULTS 1136 patients were included in the study. The median follow-up time was 6.2 years. 125 (11%) women died from breast cancer and 155 (14%) died from other causes. For the prediction of BCD, the cause-specific Cox sub-model performed the best. The time dependent AUC begins above 0.91 in year one to 3 reducing to 0.83 in year 6. The factors included in the Cox sub model were tumour size, skin thickening, source of detection, tumour grade, ER status, pre-operative nodal metastasis and CKD. CONCLUSION We have shown that a model based on preoperative factors can predict BCD. Such prediction if externally validated and incorporating treatment data could be useful for treatment planning and patient counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- Population Health and Genomics, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Peter Donnan
- Medical School Division of Population Health Sciences Within the Medical Research Institute, University of Dundee Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | | | - Lee Jordan
- Histopathology Breast Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Alastair Thompson
- Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, United States; Population Health and Genomics, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Andy Evans
- Mail Box 4, Ninewells Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK.
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Quantitative assessments of late radiation-induced skin and soft tissue toxicity and correlation with RTOG scales and biological equivalent dose in breast cancer. Clin Transl Oncol 2021; 24:836-845. [PMID: 34792726 PMCID: PMC8600910 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-021-02729-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Radiation-induced toxicity (RIT) is usually assessed by inspection and palpation. Due to their subjective and unquantitative nature, objective methods are required. This study aimed to determine whether a quantitative tool is able to assess RIT and establish an underlying BED-response relationship in breast cancer. Methods Patients following seven different breast radiation protocols were recruited to this study for RIT assessment with qualitative and quantitative examination. The biologically equivalent dose (BED) was used to directly compare different radiation regimens. RIT was subjectively evaluated by physicians using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) late toxicity scores. Simultaneously an objective multiprobe device was also used to quantitatively assess late RIT in terms of erythema, hyperpigmentation, elasticity and skin hydration. Results In 194 patients, in terms of the objective measurements, treated breasts showed higher erythema and hyperpigmentation and lower elasticity and hydration than untreated breasts (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.019, respectively). As the BED increased, Δerythema and Δpigmentation gradually increased as well (p = 0.006 and p = 0.002, respectively). Regarding the clinical assessment, the increase in BED resulted in a higher RTOG toxicity grade (p < 0.001). Quantitative assessments were consistent with RTOG scores. As the RTOG toxicity grade increased, the erythema and pigmentation values increased, and the elasticity index decreased (p < 0.001, p = 0.016, p = 0.005, respectively). Conclusions The multiprobe device can be a sensitive and simple tool for research purpose and quantitatively assessing RIT in patients undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer. Physician-assessed toxicity scores and objective measurements revealed that the BED was positively associated with the severity of RIT. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12094-021-02729-z.
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Evans A, Sim YT, Lawson B, Macaskill J, Jordan L, Thompson A. The value of prognostic ultrasound features of breast cancer in different molecular subtypes with a focus on triple negative disease. Breast Cancer 2021; 29:296-301. [PMID: 34780035 PMCID: PMC8885477 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-021-01311-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The ultrasound (US) features of breast cancer have recently been shown to have prognostic significance. We aim to assess these features according to molecular subtype. 1140 consecutive US visible invasive breast cancers had US size and mean stiffness by shearwave elastography (SWE) recorded prospectively. Skin thickening (> 2.5 mm) overlying the cancer on US and the presence of posterior echo enhancement were assessed retrospectively while blinded to outcomes. Cancers were classified as luminal, triple negative (TN) or HER2 + ve based on immunohistochemistry and florescent in-situ hybridization. The relationship between US parameters and breast cancer specific survival (BCSS) was ascertained using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and ROC analysis. At median follow-up 6.3 year, there were 117 breast cancer (10%) and 132 non-breast deaths (12%). US size was significantly associated with BCSS all groups (area under the curve (AUC) 0.74 in luminal cancers, 0.64 for TN and 0.65 for HER2 + ve cancers). US skin thickening was associated most strongly with poor prognosis in TN cancers (53% vs. 80% 6 year survival, p = 0.0004). Posterior echo enhancement was associated with a poor BCSS in TN cancers (63% vs. 82% 6 year survival, p = 0.02). Mean stiffness at SWE was prognostic in the luminal and HER2 positive groups (AUC 0.69 and 0.63, respectively). In the subgroup of patients with TN cancers receiving neo-adjuvant chemotherapy posterior enhancement and skin thickening were not associated with response. US skin thickening is a poor prognostic indicator is all 3 subtypes studied, while posterior enhancement was associated with poor outcome in TN cancers
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Evans
- Mail Box 4 Ninewells Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, USA.
| | - Yee Ting Sim
- Breast Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY, USA
| | - Brooke Lawson
- Breast Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY, USA
| | | | - Lee Jordan
- Breast Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY, USA
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Impact of Regional Nodal Irradiation and Hypofractionated Whole-Breast Radiation on Long-Term Breast Retraction and Poor Cosmetic Outcome in Breast Cancer Survivors. Clin Breast Cancer 2020; 20:e75-e81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Choong WL, Evans A, Purdie CA, Wang H, Donnan PT, Lawson B, Macaskill EJ. Mode of presentation and skin thickening on ultrasound may predict nodal burden in breast cancer patients with a positive axillary core biopsy. Br J Radiol 2020; 93:20190711. [PMID: 31971817 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20190711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A number of pre-operative factors predicting nodal burden in females with breast cancer have recently been identified. The aim of this study is to assess if these factors independently influence nodal burden in females with a positive axillary core biopsy. METHODS All node positive patients detected on axillary core biopsy were identified in our cancer audit database. Mode of presentation, age, core tumour grade, core tumour type, ER and HER2 status were evaluated. Tumours were assessed for ultrasound size, distance of tumour-to-skin, presence of invasion of skin and diffuse skin thickening. Axillary lymph nodes were assessed for cortical thickness and presence of ultrasound replaced nodes. Statistical significance was ascertained using univariate logistic regression. A predictive model was produced following a multiple logistic regression model incorporating cross-validation and assessed using receiving operating characteristic curve. RESULTS 115 patients' data were analysed. Patients referred because of symptoms (70% vs 38%, p = 0.005), and those with ultrasound skin thickening (87% vs 59%, p = 0.055) have higher nodal burden than those referred from screening or without skin thickening. These factors were significant after multivariate analysis. The final predictive model included mode of presentation, ultrasound tumour size, cortical thickness and presence of ultrasound skin thickening. The area under curve is 0.77. CONCLUSION We have shown that mode of presentation and ultrasound skin thickening are independent predictors of high nodal burden at surgery. A model has been developed to predict nodal burden pre-operatively, which may lead to avoidance of axillary node clearance in patients with lower nodal burden. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE Method of presentation and skin involvement/proximity to skin by the primary tumour are known to influence outcome and nodal involvement respectively but have not been studied with regard to nodal burden. We have shown that mode of presentation and skin thickening at ultrasound are independent predictors of high nodal burden at surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Ling Choong
- Department of Breast Surgery, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Level 6, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrew Evans
- Department of Radiology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Level 6, Dundee, UK
| | - Colin A Purdie
- Department of Pathology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Huan Wang
- Population Health and Genomics, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Peter T Donnan
- Population Health and Genomics, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Brooke Lawson
- Department of Radiology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Level 6, Dundee, UK
| | - E Jane Macaskill
- Department of Breast Surgery, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Level 6, Dundee, UK
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Clinical and Statistical Considerations when Assessing Oxygen Levels in Tumors: Illustrative Results from Clinical EPR Oximetry Studies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1232:155-168. [PMID: 31893406 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-34461-0_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The success of treatment for malignancies, especially those undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, has long been recognized to depend on the degree of hypoxia in the tumor. In addition to the prognostic value of knowing the tumor's initial level of hypoxia, assessing the tumor oxygenation during standard therapy or oxygen-related treatments (such as breathing oxygen-enriched gas mixtures or taking drugs that can increase oxygen supply to tissues) can provide valuable data to improve the efficacy of treatments. A series of early clinical studies of tumors in humans are ongoing at Dartmouth and Emory using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry to assess tumor oxygenation, initially and over time during either natural disease progression or treatment. This approach has the potential for reaching the long-sought goal of enhancing the effectiveness of cancer therapy. In order to effectively reach this goal, we consider the validity of the practical and statistical assumptions when interpreting the measurements made in vivo for patients undergoing treatment for cancer.
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Lin JY, Yang X, Serra M, Miller AH, Godette KD, Kahn ST, Henry S, Brown G, Liu T, Torres MA. Full axillary lymph node dissection and increased breast epidermal thickness 1 year after radiation therapy for breast cancer. J Surg Oncol 2019; 120:1397-1403. [PMID: 31705561 DOI: 10.1002/jso.25757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously reported a prospective study showing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is associated with increased breast skin thickening during and 6 weeks post-radiation therapy (RT), and now report ALND's long-term impact at 1 year. METHODS Among 66 women who received whole breast RT after lumpectomy, objective ultrasound measurements of epidermal thickness over four quadrants of the treated breast were measured at five time points: before RT, week 6 of RT, and 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year post-RT. Skin thickness ratio (STRA) was generated by normalizing for corresponding measurements of the contralateral breast. RESULTS A total of 2,436 ultrasound images were obtained. Among 63 women with evaluable data at 1 year, mean STRA significantly increased at 6 months (absolute mean increase of 65%, SD 0.054), and remained elevated at 1 year post-RT (absolute mean increase of 44%, SD 0.048). In multivariable analysis, ALND compared to sentinel lymph node biopsy, longer interval between surgery and RT, increased baseline STRA, and Caucasian race predicted for more severe changes in STRA at 1 year compared to baseline (all P < .05). CONCLUSIONS In the setting of whole breast RT, our findings suggest that ALND has long-term repercussions on breast skin thickening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolinta Y Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Monica Serra
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Medicine, Division of General Medicine and Geriatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Andrew H Miller
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Karen D Godette
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shannon T Kahn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Simone Henry
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Gabrielle Brown
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mylin A Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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14
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Pazdrowski J, Dańczak‐Pazdrowska A, Polańska A, Kaźmierska J, Barczak W, Szewczyk M, Golusiński P, Adamski Z, Żaba R, Golusiński W. An ultrasonographic monitoring of skin condition in patients receiving radiotherapy for head and neck cancers. Skin Res Technol 2019; 25:857-861. [DOI: 10.1111/srt.12745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Pazdrowski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery The Greater Poland Cancer Centre Poznan Poland
| | | | - Adriana Polańska
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
| | - Joanna Kaźmierska
- Radiotherapy Department II Greater Poland Cancer Center Poznan Poland
- Electroradiology Department University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
| | - Wojciech Barczak
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
- Radiobiology Lab The Greater Poland Cancer Centre Poznan Poland
| | - Mateusz Szewczyk
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery The Greater Poland Cancer Centre Poznan Poland
| | - Paweł Golusiński
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery The Greater Poland Cancer Centre Poznan Poland
| | - Zygmunt Adamski
- Department of Dermatology Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
| | - Ryszard Żaba
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
| | - Wojciech Golusiński
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery The Greater Poland Cancer Centre Poznan Poland
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15
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Garnier M, Champeaux E, Laurent E, Boehm A, Briard O, Wachter T, Vaillant L, Patat F, Bens G, Machet L. High-frequency ultrasound quantification of acute radiation dermatitis: pilot study of patients undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer. Skin Res Technol 2017; 23:602-606. [PMID: 28513053 DOI: 10.1111/srt.12378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) is a frequent complication after breast cancer radiotherapy and is usually assessed by semi-quantitative clinical scores, which may be subject to inter-observer variability. High-frequency ultrasound imaging of the skin can reliably quantify thickness and edema in diseased skin. We aimed to compare the relative increase in dermal thickness of the irradiated zone in breast-cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, with clinical severity. METHODS A consecutive series of patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer by lumpectomy and radiotherapy in a 6-month period also underwent clinical and ultrasound evaluation of ARD. RESULTS We included 34 female patients 17 had grade 1 (group 1), 17 had grade 2 or grade 3 ARD (group 2). The mean relative increase in dermal thickness in irradiated skin (RIDTIS) was greater for group 2 than 1: 0.53 vs 0.29 mm (P=.023). On univariate analysis, ARD was associated with skin phototype, breast volume and RIDTIS, and on multivariable analysis, breast volume and age remained predictive of the disease. CONCLUSION Patients with more severe dermatitis showed significantly increased dermal thickness. Dermal thickness is a quantitative variable that could help quantify the efficacy of drugs and improve the treatment of this disease in patients undergoing radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Garnier
- Department of Dermatology, CHRU Tours, Tours, France.,Department of Radiotherapy, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - E Champeaux
- Department of Radiotherapy, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - E Laurent
- Department of Epidemiology, CHRU Tours, Tours, France
| | - A Boehm
- Department of Radiotherapy, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - O Briard
- Department of Radiotherapy, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - T Wachter
- Department of Radiotherapy, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - L Vaillant
- Department of Dermatology, CHRU Tours, Tours, France.,Inserm U930, Université François-Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
| | - F Patat
- Inserm U930, Université François-Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
| | - G Bens
- Department of Dermatology, CHR Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - L Machet
- Department of Dermatology, CHRU Tours, Tours, France.,Inserm U930, Université François-Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
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16
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Schack LH, Alsner J, Overgaard J, Andreassen CN, Offersen BV. Radiation-induced morbidity evaluated by high-frequency ultrasound. Acta Oncol 2016; 55:1498-1500. [PMID: 27581725 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2016.1222079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Line H. Schack
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jan Alsner
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jens Overgaard
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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17
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Torres MA, Yang X, Noreen S, Chen H, Han T, Henry S, Mister D, Andic F, Long Q, Liu T. The Impact of Axillary Lymph Node Surgery on Breast Skin Thickening During and After Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2016; 95:590-6. [PMID: 27055397 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2016.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This prospective study was conducted to determine predictors of epidermal thickening during and after whole-breast radiation therapy (XRT) using objective measurements acquired with ultrasound. METHODS AND MATERIALS After breast-conserving surgery, 70 women received a definitive course of whole-breast XRT (50 Gy plus boost). Prior to XRT, at week 6 of XRT, and 6 weeks after XRT, patients underwent objective ultrasound measurements of epidermal thickness over the lumpectomy cavity and all 4 quadrants of the treated breast. A skin thickness ratio (STRA) was then generated normalizing for corresponding measurements taken of the untreated breast. RESULTS Baseline measurements indicated that 87% of patients had skin thickening in the treated versus untreated breast (mean increase, 27%; SD, 0.29) prior to XRT. The STRA increased significantly by week 6 of XRT (mean, 25%; SD, 0.46) and continued to increase significantly 6 weeks after XRT (mean, 33%; SD, 0.46) above baseline measurements (P<.001 for both time points). On multivariate analysis, breast volume (P=.003) and surgical evaluation of the axilla with full lymph node dissection (P<.05) predicted for more severe changes in the STRA 6 weeks after XRT compared with baseline. STRA measurements correlated with physician ratings of skin toxicity according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group grading criteria. CONCLUSIONS This is one of the first studies to objectively document that lymph node surgery affects XRT-induced skin thickening in patients with breast cancer. Surgical evaluation of the axilla with complete lymph node dissection was associated with the most severe XRT-induced skin changes after XRT completion. These results may inform future studies aimed at minimizing side effects of XRT and surgery, particularly when surgical lymph node assessments may not alter breast cancer management or outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mylin A Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Samantha Noreen
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Provision Center for Proton Therapy, Knoxville, Tennessee
| | - Tatiana Han
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Simone Henry
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Donna Mister
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Fundagal Andic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cukurova University School of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
| | - Qi Long
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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18
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Singh M, Alavi A, Wong R, Akita S. Radiodermatitis: A Review of Our Current Understanding. Am J Clin Dermatol 2016; 17:277-92. [PMID: 27021652 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-016-0186-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Radiodermatitis (radiation dermatitis, radiation-induced skin reactions, or radiation injury) is a significant side effect of ionizing radiation delivered to the skin during cancer treatment as well as a result of nuclear attacks and disasters, such as that which occurred in Fukushima in 2011. More specifically, 95 % of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy will develop some form of radiodermatitis, including erythema, dry desquamation, and moist desquamation. These radiation skin reactions result in a myriad of complications, including delays in treatment, diminished aesthetic appeal, and reduced quality of life. Recent technological advancements and novel treatment regimens have only been successful in partly ameliorating these adverse side effects. This article examines the current knowledge surrounding the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, differential diagnoses, prevention, and management of radiodermatitis. Future research should examine therapies that incorporate the current understanding of the pathophysiology of radiodermatitis while measuring effectiveness using objective and universal outcome measures.
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19
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O'Shea T, Bamber J, Fontanarosa D, van der Meer S, Verhaegen F, Harris E. Review of ultrasound image guidance in external beam radiotherapy part II: intra-fraction motion management and novel applications. Phys Med Biol 2016; 61:R90-137. [PMID: 27002558 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/61/8/r90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Imaging has become an essential tool in modern radiotherapy (RT), being used to plan dose delivery prior to treatment and verify target position before and during treatment. Ultrasound (US) imaging is cost-effective in providing excellent contrast at high resolution for depicting soft tissue targets apart from those shielded by the lungs or cranium. As a result, it is increasingly used in RT setup verification for the measurement of inter-fraction motion, the subject of Part I of this review (Fontanarosa et al 2015 Phys. Med. Biol. 60 R77-114). The combination of rapid imaging and zero ionising radiation dose makes US highly suitable for estimating intra-fraction motion. The current paper (Part II of the review) covers this topic. The basic technology for US motion estimation, and its current clinical application to the prostate, is described here, along with recent developments in robust motion-estimation algorithms, and three dimensional (3D) imaging. Together, these are likely to drive an increase in the number of future clinical studies and the range of cancer sites in which US motion management is applied. Also reviewed are selections of existing and proposed novel applications of US imaging to RT. These are driven by exciting developments in structural, functional and molecular US imaging and analytical techniques such as backscatter tissue analysis, elastography, photoacoustography, contrast-specific imaging, dynamic contrast analysis, microvascular and super-resolution imaging, and targeted microbubbles. Such techniques show promise for predicting and measuring the outcome of RT, quantifying normal tissue toxicity, improving tumour definition and defining a biological target volume that describes radiation sensitive regions of the tumour. US offers easy, low cost and efficient integration of these techniques into the RT workflow. US contrast technology also has potential to be used actively to assist RT by manipulating the tumour cell environment and by improving the delivery of radiosensitising agents. Finally, US imaging offers various ways to measure dose in 3D. If technical problems can be overcome, these hold potential for wide-dissemination of cost-effective pre-treatment dose verification and in vivo dose monitoring methods. It is concluded that US imaging could eventually contribute to all aspects of the RT workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuathan O'Shea
- Joint Department of Physics, Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton, London SM2 5NG, UK
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20
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Gao Y, Tannenbaum A, Chen H, Torres M, Yoshida E, Yang X, Wang Y, Curran W, Liu T. Automated skin segmentation in ultrasonic evaluation of skin toxicity in breast cancer radiotherapy. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2013; 39:2166-75. [PMID: 23993172 PMCID: PMC3913784 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2013.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Skin toxicity is the most common side effect of breast cancer radiotherapy and impairs the quality of life of many breast cancer survivors. We, along with other researchers, have recently found quantitative ultrasound to be effective as a skin toxicity assessment tool. Although more reliable than standard clinical evaluations (visual observation and palpation), the current procedure for ultrasound-based skin toxicity measurements requires manual delineation of the skin layers (i.e., epidermis-dermis and dermis-hypodermis interfaces) on each ultrasound B-mode image. Manual skin segmentation is time consuming and subjective. Moreover, radiation-induced skin injury may decrease image contrast between the dermis and hypodermis, which increases the difficulty of delineation. Therefore, we have developed an automatic skin segmentation tool (ASST) based on the active contour model with two significant modifications: (i) The proposed algorithm introduces a novel dual-curve scheme for the double skin layer extraction, as opposed to the original single active contour method. (ii) The proposed algorithm is based on a geometric contour framework as opposed to the previous parametric algorithm. This ASST algorithm was tested on a breast cancer image database of 730 ultrasound breast images (73 ultrasound studies of 23 patients). We compared skin segmentation results obtained with the ASST with manual contours performed by two physicians. The average percentage differences in skin thickness between the ASST measurement and that of each physician were less than 5% (4.8 ± 17.8% and -3.8 ± 21.1%, respectively). In summary, we have developed an automatic skin segmentation method that ensures objective assessment of radiation-induced changes in skin thickness. Our ultrasound technology offers a unique opportunity to quantify tissue injury in a more meaningful and reproducible manner than the subjective assessments currently employed in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Allen Tannenbaum
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mylin Torres
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Emi Yoshida
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yuefeng Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Walter Curran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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