Objectives: The optimal technique to administer image-guided radiation therapy for prostate cancer remains poorly defined. This study assessed outcomes after multiparametric prostate MRI-based planning was delivered with image-guided radiation therapy using prostatic calculi observed on cone beam CT (CBCT).
Methods: Between January 2015 and December 2017, 94 consecutive patients were treated with CBCT-based image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) without fiducial markers. MRI was routinely incorporated for target delineation and intraprostatic tumor nodules were boosted to allow reduced doses to normal appearing prostate. The primary endpoint was the prevalence of prostatic calcifications while toxicity and biochemical control were secondary endpoints.
Results: Median follow-up was 39.7 months with 82% NCCN intermediate to very high risk. Intraprostatic calculi were noted in 68% of patients. The 3-year biochemical control, late grade ≥2 rectal toxicity and late grade ≥2 urinary toxicity rates were 96%, 3 and 7%, respectively. Biochemical control and toxicity were not significantly impacted by the presence of prostatic calculi.
Conclusion: Prostatic calcifications can serve as natural fiducial markers to allow for non-invasive IGRT for prostate cancer with promising early disease control and toxicity outcomes.
Advances in knowledge: Prostate calcification-guided IGRT is technically feasible.