Question

Which is the treatment of choice for irradiation in Chordoma ?

• A. Protons
• B. Electrons
• C. Gamma radiation
• D. 3D - CRT

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The treatment of choice for irradiation in Chordoma is Protons. Chordomas are rare malignant tumors that occur along the spine, often at the base of the skull or in the sacrum. Treatment plans for chordomas typically focus on maximizing tumor control while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Explanation: The unique physical properties of proton beams make them particularly suitable for the treatment of chordomas:

• Bragg Peak Effect: Protons have a distinct advantage in delivering a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor with minimal exit dose. This reduces the exposure of surrounding healthy tissues and critical structures, a crucial factor in treating chordomas that often occur near sensitive areas like the spinal cord and brainstem.
• Precision Targeting: Proton therapy allows for precise dose distribution, which is beneficial in targeting irregularly shaped tumors such as chordomas, with complex geometries that are located near vital anatomical regions.
• Reduced Side Effects: By decreasing the radiation burden on non-targeted tissues, proton therapy decreases the risk of side effects and complications associated with radiation therapy.

Due to these properties, proton beam therapy is considered the treatment of choice for chordomas, offering improved local control rates and a better quality of life for patients when compared to conventional radiotherapy modalities such as electrons, gamma radiation, or 3D conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT).

Option	Reason for Inefficiency
Electrons	Limited penetration, unsuitable for deep-seated tumors like chordomas.
Gamma radiation	Lacks precise dose distribution required for chordomas near critical structures.
3D - CRT	Less target specificity compared to proton therapy, potential for higher doses to surrounding tissues.