Robotic stereotactic body radiotherapy for the management of adrenal gland metastases: a bi-institutional analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Adrenal gland metastases (AGMs) are a common manifestation of metastatic tumor spread, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In patients with a limited systemic tumor burden, effective treatments for AGMs are needed. Due to varying fractionation schemes and limited reports, short-course treatment results for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for AGMs are lacking. This work analyzes the outcomes of short-course SBRT for AGMs.

Methods: Patients who underwent robotic SBRT for AGMs with one to five fractions were eligible for analysis.

Results: In total, data from 55 patients with 72 AGMs from two institutions were analyzed. Most AGMs originated from renal cell carcinoma (38%) and NSCLC (35%). The median follow-up was 16.4 months. The median prescription dose and isodose line were 24 Gy and 70%, respectively. Most patients (85%) received SBRT with just one fraction. The median biologically effective dose assuming an alpha/beta ratio of 10 (BED10) was 80.4 Gy. The local control and progression-free survival after 1 and 2 years were 92.9%, 67.8%, and 46.2%, as well as 24.3%, respectively. Thirteen patients (24%) suffered from grade 1 or 2 toxicities. The BED10 showed a significant impact on LC (p < 0.01). Treatments with a BED10 equal to or above the median were associated with a better LC (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Robotic SBRT is an efficient and safe treatment modality for AGM. Treatment-associated side effects are sporadic and manageable. Results suggest short-course SBRT to be a preferable and time-saving treatment option for the management of AGMs if an adequate BED10 can be safely applied.