BORON NEUTRON CAPTURE THERAPY

Abstract

　Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for locally recurrent and locally advanced head and neck cancer using the boron agent, borofalan (¹⁰B) and the accelerator-based BNCT treatment system began with the public insurance coverage in June 2020. This therapy is based on the transmutation reaction of boron-10 and neutrons, and enables tumor-selective treatment based on the accumulation of boron agents. However, since the neutrons used in BNCT do not reach deep into the body, it may be difficult to provide effective treatment to patients with deep-seated tumors. Therefore, it is desirable to use this treatment method as early as possible as a treatment option for patients who are found to have local recurrence.