Can 3D pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling perfusion imaging be applied to predict early response to chemoradiotherapy in patients with advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma?

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is characterized by distinct geographical distribution worldwide and is particularly prevalent in east and southeast Asia countries such as China [1]. Generally, early-stage NPC (stage ⅠandⅡ) can achieve a cure rate of over 90% by surgery combined with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) [2]. However, because of easily overlooked clinical symptoms, most NPCs are in advanced stage (stage III and IV) with surrounding tissues invaded once the lesions are detected. The opportunity of radical surgery for advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (ANPC) is thus unfortunately lost [3].
Source: Radiotherapy and Oncology - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research