A new treatment guideline from the International Lymphoma Radiation Oncology Group (ILROG) outlines the use of 3-D computed tomography (CT)-based radiation therapy planning for use in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma.

The new guideline focuses on using involved site radiation therapy to define radiation target volumes and limit dose to normal organs at risk, which investigators say could reduce radiation to the breast and heart by 80% and 65%, respectively. Recommendations include:

• Use modern imaging innovations in radiation therapy planning to treat patients while decreasing the risk of late side effects, such as secondary cancers and heart disease.

• Use both contrast-enhanced CT and fluorodeoxyglucose-PET (FDG-PET) to accurately assess the extent and location of disease.

• Use CT and FDG-PET images taken before and after chemotherapy to evaluate response and plan radiation therapy.

Citation: Hodgson DC, Dieckmann K, Terezakis S, Constine L; International Lymphoma Radiation Oncology Group. Implementation of contemporary radiation therapy planning concepts for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma: guidelines from the International Lymphoma Radiation Oncology Group. Pract Radiat Oncol.2015;5(2):85-92. doi:10.1016/j.prro.2014.05.003.