BNCT for recurrent intracranial meningeal tumours - case reports

OBJECTIVES: The investigation was designed to explore the efficacy of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) as treatment for recurrent intracranial meningeal tumours. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three patients with meningeal tumours, recurring after initial surgery, radiation therapy and several reoperations, were evaluated for treatment with BNCT by determination of the accumulation of boronophenylalanine fructose (BPA-F) in tumour and in surrounding tissue. Two of these patients were subsequently treated by BNCT. RESULTS: The present results indicate that BNCT could be effective in prolonging time to recurrence, and thus in extending survival time, for patients with recurrent intracranial meningeal tumours. CONCLUSIONS: BNCT is potentially an effective radiation treatment modality for malignant intracranial meningeal tumours, which could increase progression-free survival, thus reducing the need for additional surgical interventions. Indications for BNCT would be even larger if recurrent grade II meningiomas could be treated, as indicated by the results of the boron uptake study.