Modern Radiation for Hematologic Stem Cell Transplantation: Total Marrow and Lymphoid Irradiation or Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy Total Body Irradiation.

ABSTRACT

The development of large-field intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has enabled the implementation of total marrow irradiation (TMI), total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI), and IMRT total body irradiation (TBI). IMRT TBI limits doses to organs at risk, primarily the lungs and in some cases the kidneys and lenses, which may mitigate complications. TMI/TMLI allows for dose escalation above TBI radiation therapy doses to malignant sites while still sparing organs at risk. Although still sparingly used, these techniques have established feasibility and demonstrated promise in reducing the adverse effects of TBI while maintaining and potentially improving survival outcomes.