The use of high energy electrons in the field of oncology. Experience of the O. Alberti Radio Institute of Brescia

: The vast clinical experience of the "Istituto del Radio" (Brescia) in electron beam therapy (2-18 MeV Betatron, 1964-1974; 5-21 MeV Microtron accelerator, 1974 onwards) leads to underline three possible risks: the underestimation of the lesion thickness, the underestimation of the field dimensions, the exclusive use of electrons to give the whole tumour dose. Both in ENT tumours and in breast cancer electrons must be associated with high energy photons, in order to improving the clinical results with reduced risks of severe late effects. The exclusive use of fast electrons in cancer therapy is only indicated in "particular and rare" cases.