Stereotactic Radiation Therapy in Children and Young Adults: Can We Apply Adult Treatment Paradigms?

Abstract

The use of stereotactic radiation therapy (RT) in the treatment of children and young adults with malignancies and benign conditions has been increasing. However, the evidence guiding stereotactic RT in this population is in a nascent phase compared with adult-derived data. In this critical review, the authors discuss some of the adult evidence behind stereotactic body RT and stereotactic radiosurgery and how it can be applied to children with cancer. An overview of pediatric-specific evidence and guidelines for stereotactic body RT and stereotactic radiosurgery is discussed, including indications, treatment approaches, outcomes, and future directions for research.