A 40-year-old woman with Stage IIB cervical squamous cell carcinoma is treated with concurrent chemoradiation. Which dose of cisplatin delivered to Point A is the target for curative external beam plus brachytherapy?
- A EQD2 of 60-65 Gy
- B EQD2 of 80-85 Gy or higher ✓
- C EQD2 of 70-75 Gy
- D EQD2 of 95-100 Gy
Correct answer: B. EQD2 of 80-85 Gy or higher
Explanation
The cumulative dose to Point A (equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions, EQD2) combining external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy should be at least 80-85 Gy for optimal local control of locally advanced cervical cancer. Lower doses are associated with higher recurrence rates. This target accounts for the combined biological effect of EBRT and the high-dose-rate brachytherapy boost.
Reference: Perez and Brady's Principles and Practice of Radiation Oncology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.