Case Studies of Patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme Treated with Boron Neutron Capture Therapy at the Brookhaven Medical Research Reactor

Over the past decade, research at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) and other places in the world has led to several significant advances in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) technology. These include the development of epithermal neutron beams1 as well as more tumor-specific boron compounds.2 In 1994, a Phase I/II clinical trial of BNCT using intravenous p-boronophenylalanine-fructose (BPA-F) and epithermal neutrons was initiated to determine both the safety and possible efficacy of BNCT for glioblastoma multiforme.3 As with any new therapy, a practical clinical experience with BNCT has been gained over time. Specific management issues seen in this trial have involved the use of steroid medication, early neurological deficits, seizure management, and BNCT-related necrosis.