A 48-year-old woman with FIGO Stage IIB cervical squamous cell carcinoma is planned for definitive chemoradiation. The radiation protocol includes external beam radiotherapy to the whole pelvis. What is the standard total dose delivered to Point A in combined EBRT plus brachytherapy?
- A 45 to 50 Gy
- B 60 to 65 Gy
- C 80 to 85 Gy ✓
- D 95 to 100 Gy
Correct answer: C. 80 to 85 Gy
Explanation
The combined EBRT (45 to 50 Gy to whole pelvis) plus high-dose-rate brachytherapy delivers a total equivalent dose of approximately 80 to 85 Gy to Point A (defined as 2 cm lateral and 2 cm superior to the external os). This dose is required for tumoricidal effect in locally advanced disease. Lower doses are insufficient for cure.
Reference: Perez and Brady's Principles and Practice of Radiation Oncology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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