Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy in the framework of classical radiobiology: response to Drs. Brown, Diehn, and Loo.

摘要

To the Editor: We read the recent commentary in the IJROBP by Brown, Diehn, and Loo with great interest (1). The authors discuss one of the fundamental tenets of radiobiology, hypoxia, and its impact on radioresistance, in the context of the increasing interest in stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT)/stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). The biology of SABR effects is an exciting and new area of study (2, 3). Brown et al. emphasize that classical contributors to radioresistance, in particular hypoxia, should not be forgotten. In contrast to previous experiences with hypoxic radiosensitizers, we are optimistic about the utility of their recommendation especially given that cumulative toxicity seen in historical experiences using protracted conventionally fractionated courses would not be an issue with a single fraction (4).