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Site/StageWorkupTreatmentSimDoseFieldChemoDosimetryTimingNotesF/uOutcomesAdverse effectsCitations (full in reference tab)
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GI
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Anal margin T1 anal margin=area below anal verge to 5-6 cm out on skin. Keratinizing epithelium Anal verge=area near end of anus where nonkeratinizing epithelium becomes keratinizing epithelium (=NOT dentate line)Workup same as anal cancer

EUS/MRI to confirm resectability

NCCN recommends local excision for T1 well diff as long as 1 cm margin can be obtained (typically less than 40% circumference and no sphincter involvment)
Post-op: if inadequate margins, re-excision preferred. If unresectable give RT +/- chemo

After treatment:
If mod/poor diff and negative margins, still T1: can give RT alone to 45 Gy to perianal and inguinals

For positive margins, still T1: could give RT alone to 45 Gy to perianal/inguinals plus boost to 50.4 Gy to tumor

For T2 or greater: give chemo in addition to RT. Treat perianal/inguinal field (per Steel, no chemo needed)
For T1-T2, cover perianal region and inguinals. For T3-4 or N+, add pelvis

NCCN directs to fields same as anal canal

Anal margin guidelines, Steele, Practice Patterns, 2012
NCCN: Cape/MMC for T2 or greater

Steele, Practice patterns, 2012: Cape/MMC for T3-T4 or N+
NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.

Steele et al, Practice Patterns, 2012
4
Anal margin T1, not operableworkup same as anal cancerRT alone or with chemoRTNCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
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Anal margin >T1workup same as anal cancerTreat as anal cancer per NCCNNCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
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Superficially invasive SCC (SISCCA) of anal canal or marginfound incidentally when performing biopsy or excision of condyloma, hemorrhoid, or anal skin tagclose observation is an option NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
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Anal canal T1-T2N050.4/42 Gy in 28 fx (1.8/1.5 Gy per fx)

50.4 Gy to primary and 42 to elective nodes

If treating after surgery for microscopic margins, treat to just 45 Gy
Consider diversion first, especially if abscess or incontinence

supine, vac loc, oral contrast, full bladder, anal bead marker

In female patients, some treat with vaginal dilator to help avoid vaginal fibrosis
IMRT SIB
PTV elective: 42 Gy
PTV gross: 50.4 Gy
GTV 50.4 = gross disease as determined by CT (and MRI or PET), DRE, endoscopy and biopsy. Contour GTV plus anal canal with a 2 cm CTV margin radially or 1-2mm beyond levator and at least 1 cm CTV added sup/inf. The entire mesorectum is included in the boost

CTV 42 includes mesorectal (incl. presacral) (Guideline unclear on anterior border. Can include 1 cm into bladder), bilateral inguinal, ext, and int iliacs with 7mm margin (caudal inguinal border is 2cm from saphenous/femoral junction).

PTV is an additional 1 cm of margin on these strucures
NCCN recommends chemo even for T1-T2. Some might avoid for T1RTOG 0529:
Small bowel V25<185 cc, V30<155 cc, V35<40 cc, V40<30 cc
femoral heads V44<5%, V40<35%, V30<50%
iliac crests V50<5%, V40<35%, V30<50%
ext genitalia V40<5%, V30<35%, V20<50%
bladder V50<5%, V40<35%, V35<50%

(small bowel constraints are from secondary analysis. See Olsen IJROBP 2017)
concurrentDRE in 10 weeks, if persistent disease re-eval in 4 weeks

if continues to regress, observation q3 mos

if progressive, biopsy and proceed to APR if recurrent

If CR evaluate with DRE, anoscopy and inguinal node exam q6 mo x 5 yr

vaginal dilator
RTOG 9811
Ajani et al, JAMA, 2008
Gunderson, JCO, 2012

RTOG 0529
Kachnic et al, IJROBP, 2013
Olsen et al, IJROBP, 2017

NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
RT in periaortic mets
Holliday et al, IJROBP, 2018

Vaginal dilator with sim
Son et al, IJROBP, 2015
8
Anal T3/4N0H&P: LN eval, DRE, anal sphincter tone, sexual history, HIV, HPV, IBD history, Gyn exam. Family history

Labs: CBC,
HIV if risk factors

Anoscopy/Proctoscopy/colonoscopy with bx. FNA of inguinal nodes. EUS.

CT chest, CT/MRI of A/P. PET scan not required but can be ordered for treatment delineation
RTOG IMRT:
54/45 Gy SIB in 30 fx (1.8/1.5 daily)
Consider increasing to 60 Gy if T4

RTOG 9811:
30.6 ---> 36 or 45 ---> 55-59
30.6 Gy: AP field to sup L5/S1, inf flash, lateral to greater trochanters. PA field is smaller, 2 cm lateral to greater sciatic notch. Ant electrons are matched with PA.

After 30.6 Gy, the sup border is lowered to the inf border of the SI joints, and this is treated to +14.4 Gy = 45 Gy. If N0, stop after +6 Gy=36 Gy

Then boost nodes and tumor +10-14 Gy=55-59 Gy
Consider diversion first, especially if abscess or incontinence

supine, vac loc, oral contrast, full bladder, anal bead marker

In female patients, some treat with vaginal dilator to help avoid vaginal fibrosis
IMRT SIB
PTV elective: 45 Gy
PTV gross: 54 Gy

optional boost to 60 Gy
GTV 54 = gross disease as determined by CT (and MRI or PET), DRE, endoscopy and biopsy. Contour GTV plus anal canal with a 2 cm CTV margin radially or 1-2mm beyond levator and at least 1 cm CTV added sup/inf. The entire mesorectum is included in the boost

CTV 45 includes mesorectal (incl. presacral) (Guideline unclear on anterior border. Can include 1 cm into bladder), bilateral inguinal, ext, and int iliacs with 7mm margin (caudal inguinal border is 2cm from saphenous/femoral junction).

PTV is an additional 1 cm of margin on these strucures

RTOG colorectal atlas, IJROBP, 2009
Australasian atlas, IJROBP, 2011
econtour.org
NCCN allows MMC and capacitabine 825 mg/m2 BID M-F. Can do MMC 10 mg/m2 on day 1 and 29 or only MMC 12 mg/m2 1 cycle on day 1

OR:

concurrent 5FU + MMC

CI 5FU 1000mg/m2 days x4 days, bolus MMC 10mg/m2 x 1 day, given day 1 and day 29. Can consider just doing 1 cycles MMC, especially if just doing 28 treatments of RT for early stage
DRE and vaginal dilator as above, also with CT imagingRTOG 9811
5-yr OS 80%, 5-yr DFS 70%, CFS 12%
ACT II CR 90%
Best CR at 26 weeks

5yr OS 80/75/50/10 for stage I/II/III/IV (Stage I = T1N0, Stage II = T2,3N0, Stage III = T4 or node positive, Stage IV = mets)

LC 95/75/55 for T1-3; Salvage APR success rate 50%

Note that 5yr OS improved with RT and 5FU/MMC over 5FU/CDDP on 98-11, 78% vs 70% on update. Also better disease survival, lower colostomy rates (5yr 10%)
RTOG 9811
Ajani et al, JAMA, 2008
Gunderson, JCO, 2012

RTOG 0529
Kachnic et al, IJROBP, 2013
Olsen et al, IJROBP, 2017

NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
RT in periaortic mets
Holliday et al, IJROBP, 2018

Vaginal dilator with sim
Son et al, IJROBP, 2015
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Anal N+54/50.4/45 Gy in 30 fx (1.8/1.68/1.5 daily)


54 to primary and nodal regions with nodes>3 cm
50.4 to nodal regions with nodes<3 cm
45 to negative nodal regions

If PA nodes are present, include these as well and treat definitively
Consider diversion first, especially if abscess or incontinence

supine, vac loc, oral contrast, full bladder, anal bead marker

In female patients, some treat with vaginal dilator to help avoid vaginal fibrosis
IMRT SIB
PTV elective: 45 Gy
PTV N+ < 3 cm: 50.4 Gy
PTVprim, N+ >3 cm: 54 Gy
NCCN allows MMC and capacitabine 825 mg/m2 BID M-F. Can do MMC 10 mg/m2 on day 1 and 29 or only MMC 12 mg/m2 1 cycle on day 1

OR:

concurrent 5FU + MMC

CI 5FU 1000mg/m2 days x4 days, bolus MMC 10mg/m2 x 1 day, given day 1 and day 29. Can consider just doing 1 cycles MMC, especially if just doing 28 treatments of RT for early stage
surgical salvage 70%, chemo improves local control and colostomy free survivalDRE and vaginal dilator as above, also with CT imagingRTOG 9811
Ajani et al, JAMA, 2008
Gunderson, JCO, 2012

RTOG 0529
Kachnic et al, IJROBP, 2013
Olsen et al, IJROBP, 2017

NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
RT in periaortic mets
Holliday et al, IJROBP, 2018

Vaginal dilator with sim
Son et al, IJROBP, 2015
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Anal HIV+Test CD4. Consider treatment de-escalation if is CD4 count <200. Standard treatment can be given if CD4 >200 and this is first AIDS related complication

HGSILs: treat with topical therapy, immune modulation, electrocautary ablation, infrared coagulation
Ensure following with ID and on HAART

Consider decreasing dose to total 50 Gy

Consider smaller field

Consider holding second dose of MMC and dose reducing 5FU
Consider diversion first, especially if abscess or incontinence

supine, vac loc, oral contrast, full bladder, anal bead marker
Smaller field:
superior border is bottom of SI joints (as in second phase of RTOG 9811)
Consider holding second dose of MMC and dose reducing 5FURTOG 9811
Ajani et al, JAMA, 2008
Gunderson, JCO, 2012

RTOG 0529
Kachnic et al, IJROBP, 2013
Olsen et al, IJROBP, 2017

NCCN. Anal Carcinoma.
RT in periaortic mets
Holliday et al, IJROBP, 2018

Vaginal dilator with sim
Son et al, IJROBP, 2015
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Rectal pre-op RT

International contouring guidelines 2016
H&P. Ask about incontinence. Family history, history of IBD, genetic or hereditary disorders

DRE: distance from anal verge, size, circumference, tone. Pelvic exam if female.

Labs: CBC, CMP, CEA.

Colonoscopy, consideration for diversion with colostomy if incontince, EUS (better than MRI), CT/MRI

PET "not routinely indicated" per NCCN

Surgery with LAR and TME. Goal of 12 nodes on dissection
45 Gy to whole pelvis with boost of 5.4 Gy to tumor.

First phase in 3 field prone with laterals and PA beams, then boost with opposed lateral

Short course is described in the short course section

Variations in sequencing exist. Consider FOLFIRINOX or FOLFOX chemo
prone, belly board, anal marker, oral contrast two hours before, full bladderWPRT 45 Gy
Boost 5.4 Gy
International concensus guidelines 2016
Always include: mesorectum (look at mesorectal fascia on CT), presacral nodes, internal iliac (aka post lateral LNs), (can omit obturators aka ant lateral LNs in T3N0 or T3N1). For the anterior border, consider extra margin for bladder variation.

T3 tumors without major mesorectal invasion: the cranial border is the bifurcuation of the superior rectal artery. Since the obturator LNs are omitted, the anterior border is the coronal plane where the ureters meet the bladder, and cranially the anteterior border is posterior to external iliac nodes. The obturator nodes should be included for T3N2.

Special cases:
N2: as above but include the obturator nodes. Also include these nodes in T4.
T4 anterior pelvic organ: include external iliac and obturator LNs. If lower 1/3 vagina involved then include inguinals.
T4 anal sphincter: include obturator, external iliac, inguinal nodes, and sphincter complex. Only Include the ischial rectal fossa for direct tumor infiltration or external anal sphincter involvement. (Exclude IRF if only minor invasion into IRF and APR planned)
T3 with obsturator LNs: include external iliac
LNs in abdominal presacral area: Include the abdominal presacral nodes and common iliac nodes at least 5 mm above the node

For boost see the seperate boost section

International rectal guidelines, Valentini, 2016
RTOG colorectal atlas, 2009
econtour.org
preop with concurrent capecitabine 800mg bid M-F

Consider pre-op FOLFIRINOX

Or adjuvant FOLFOX

LAR in 4-8 weeks then
Avoid hotspots over 10%, preferably <5%

Most use no constraints

PROSPECT trial constraints (not requried in the protocol, only recommended.):
small bowel V35<150cc
small bowel V40<70cc
small bowel V45<35cc
small bowel max <50 Gy
Bladder mean <40 Gy
Femoral heads max <50 Gy
Surgery in 4-8 weeks after chemoRT (do FOLFOX either all before chemoRT or all after surgery)LAR/APR after RT.

Vaginal dilator

F/u q3-6 mos for first two years, then q6 mos with CEAs. CT imaging annually up to 5 years.

Colonscopy in 1 year, then repeat in 3 years, then every 5 years
Dutch
2-yr OS 82%
5-yr LR 6% vs. 12%
10-yr LR 5% vs 11%
10-yr LR Stage III 9% vs 19%

pCR 15-20% in modern series

German pre-op vs. post-op
sphincter preservation 39% vs. 19%
acute grade 3-4 toxicity 27% vs. 40%
late grade 3-4 toxicity 14% vs 24%
OS 76% vs. 74% (NS)
TME unique side effects: ED, bladder dysfunction, SBO, sphincter control impairment, anastomotic strictureInternational contouring guidelines, Valentini et al, Radiother and Oncol, 2016

RTOG contouring guidelines

PRODIGE 23, Conroy et al, Lancet Oncol 2021

PROSPECT, Schrag et al, NEJM, 2023

CKVO Dutch trial, Kapiteijn et al, NEJM, 2001

Pre-op vs. post-op
Sauer et al, NEJM, 2004

NSABP-R03, Roh et al, JCO, 2009
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Rectal - selective pre-op RT

T2N1, T3N0, T3N1, >5 cm from anal verge, >3 mm radial margin, who are candidates for LAR
The PROSPECT trial was noninferior - these patients can choose whether they prefer long FOLFOX with selective RT vs. chemoRT + FOLFOX

Some high T3N0s can have surgery alone

T3N0 and T2N1 may also do well with chemoRT + TME alone
Treat with FOLFOX, and omit RT for good responders


FOLFOX x6 → response assessment with MRI →

if response <20% or <5 cycles completed → chemoRT → TME → FOLFOX x2

if response ≥20%, omit RT → TME → suggested FOLFOX x6
FOLFOXPROSPECT, Schrag et al, NEJM, 2023
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Rectal cancer,
RAPIDO contours
For short or long course RTRAPIDO protocol link
-Include mesorectum up to 4 cm inferior to tumor
-presacral and superior rectal artery nodes up to S1-S2, or if there are presacral nodes, the superior limit should be ≥1 cm above the highest node
-Lateral nodes of medial rectal and obturator arteries. May exclude if the tumor is above the peritoneal reflection or above 8-10 cm from anal verge
-Internal iliac nodes (as above, the superior limit is usually S1-S2)

-Inguinal nodes only if involvement of anal canal distal to dentate line or distal vagina
-Ischio-rectal fossa if involvement of levators or anal canal
-External iliac nodes for involvement of anterior organs

Boost
-2 cm superior and inferior margin, within anatomical compartments
-The radial margin is the anatomic mesorectum
-Positive nodes are also included
Bahadoer et al, Lancet Oncol, 2020
RAPIDO protocol link
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Rectal cancer,
RTOG atlas or 3D fields
Less detailed than International Guidelines and RAPIDO contouring

RTOG contours are essentially a recreation of 2D fields
Fields to cover obturator, int iliac and presacral nodes, entire mesorectum, which includes perirectal nodes, and tumor. Some contour, some draw blocks

weigh fields 2 (PA):1:1
sup/inf: L5/S1 to bottom of obturator foramen or 3 cm below tumor, whichever is more inferior
lat: 2 cm beyond pelvic brim
ant: behind pubic symphysis and 3cm in front of sacral promontory
post: 1 cm behind sacrum. Some say to do this for T4, and if T3 to do 2 cm border from pre-sacrum RTOG R-0012 (or simply contour what you want to target)

If T4 with anterior structure invasion - move ant border in front of pubic symphisis

Boost field below

RTOG contouring atlas
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Rectal boost field5.4 GyBoost:
Anatomical 3D contouring: Goal of local control. The radial border is the true mesorectal fascia (note the RTOG atlas definition of the "mesorectum" is not the anatomical mesorectum). Optional to include sacral hollow. Expand from GTV 1-2 cm superior and inferior. Allows for more sparing of bladder.

Inclusion of nodes? Protocols and guidelines vary whether nodes should be included. If the goal is reducing risk of LR, this suggests nodes need not be included in the boost. They will be removed surgically.

RTOG Guidelines Avoids making a recommendation, but does give a typical boost suggestion: 2 cm margin around GTV and include nearby sacral hollow and mesorectum per RTOG definition of mesorectum. In large tumors this can create a very large volume.
PROSPECT trial 3 cm total margin from GTV and include sacral hollow but not all mesorectum. This method can result in unusually large volumes.

Beam arrangement: Often laterals only since the boost is only 3 fractions. Various practices exist including laterals, 3 field, or 4 field.
RTOG guidelines
PROSPECT (NCT01515787)
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Rectal short course RTPossible indications:
everyone per PROSPECT and RAPIDO, or: expedited control of symptoms, surgery or chemo desired soon, limited time to complete
5 Gy x 5 fractions to pelvis (not only to tumor)

No concurrent chemo

Surgery 4-8 weeks (Improved outcomes over 1 week. See Stockholm III study)
25 Gy/ 5 fx (to pelvis)As above: LNs are included.
none during RT

Possible FOLFOX after RT
Constraints have not been outlined. This regimen should meet all SBRT constraints for 25 Gy in 5 fx.Surgery 4-8 weeks (Stockholm III)Long course radiation may have minor improvements in outcomes over short course in LC, late toxicity, and pCR but no consensus. Other studies show identical outcomes. (Polish, TROG, Shanghai)

Stockholm III showed lower toxicity if a 4-8 week interval is used from RT to surgery. Other outcomes were the same. (1 week interval is used in most short course trials)
Timing
Stockholm III, Erlandsson et al, Lancet Oncol, 2017

TROG 01.04, Ngan et al, JCO, 2012
Shanghai, Zhou et al, Surg Oncol, 2014
Polish, Bujko et al, Ann Oncol, 2016
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Rectal post-opNCCN allows for treatment with FOLFOX alone instead of chemoRT

Indications: possibly for unexpected N1-N2 or T3-T4 tumor that was originally thought to be T1-2N0.

Consider for a tumor that was excised but then found not to meet excision criteria. Also offer completion surgery instead.
Nancy Lee contouring text: 54 Gy plus boost to 55.8 Gy
For positive margin, boost to 59.4-60 Gy

NCCN: 45 Gy plus boost to 50.4-54 Gy total
For positive give 10-20 Gy boost with EBRT or brachy
WPRT 45-54 Gy
Boost to 50.4-60 Gy
Consider following the logic of the pre-op international concensus guidelines. Classically, the inferior border changes

If LAR, 1 cm below anastamosis or rectal stump

If APR, extend inferior border down to scar

Concurrent capecitabine

FOLFOX alone is another option if RT not being done
Nancy Lee et al, Target Volume Delineation for Conformal and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy, 2015

NSABP-R03, Roh et al, JCO, 2009

NCCN. Rectal Cancer.
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Rectal cancer, inguinal node recurrenceFNA

Consider excisional biopy of node, but healing results can be morbid especially in overweight patients
RT to inguinal nodes on that side with concurrent capecitabineHagemans et al, Ann Surg Oncol, 2019
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Rectal organ sparing45 Gy WPRT then:

Boost up to 54-60 Gy

contact x-ray brachytherapy boost 90 Gy/3 fx, especially for size ≤3 cm

offer local excision only for size <2 cm (GRECCAR 2)
WPRT 45 Gy

EBRT boost to 50.4-60 Gy

Contact brachy boost + 90 Gy/ 3 fx
capecitabineNCCN: endoscopy every 3-4 months for first 2 years or MRI every 6 months for 3 yearscCR in 87% in IWWD

cCR in 50% with 50.4 Gy and bx on f/u. Of these, nearly all (95%) are salvaged (Sao Paulo)

CR in 80% with 60 Gy chemoRT. Of CR patients, 1-yr LR 16% (Danish)
OPRA, Garcia-Aguilar et al, JCO, 2022
OPERA, Gerard et al, Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2023
Danish, Appelt et al, Lancet, 2016

Sao Paulo, Habr Gama et al, Lancet, 2014

IWWD, van der Valk et al, Lancet, 2018

GRECCAR 2, Rullier et al, Lancet, 2017
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T1 rectal meeting criteria for WLETransanal excision or TEM, transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Get MRI/EUS to confirm resectability

Indications:
<3 cm, <30% circumference, margin >3mm, mobile, within 8 cm of anal verge, T1, endoscopically removed polyp, well/mod differentiated, no LVSI or PNI
NCCN Post-op treatment indications:

If additional high risk features (poorly diff, +M, LVSI, or invasion into lower third of submucosa "sm3", T2): do LAR/APR, then post-op chemoRT if pT3-T4 or N1-N2

If pT3-4N0 or any N1-N2, then treat with chemoRT
<30% circumference, <3cm in size, clear margins, T1, mobile, within 8 cm of anal verge, no LVSI, grade 1/2, no LN)NCCN. Rectal Cancer.
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Esophagus T1a, T1b, Tis, and T2Tis: ER followed by ablation
T1a: ER and ablation
T1b: esophagectomy alone

T2: can be treated with esophagectomy alone if noncervical, low risk lesion < 2cm, grade 1-2
NCCN. Rectal Cancer.
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T2 adjuvant radiation Indications:
-R1/2: chemoRT

-adeno, R0 and N0: surveillance or consider CRT if lower esophagus/GEJ, grade 2-3, +PNI/LVI, age <50

-R0 and N+ (any T): CRT or chemo alone; if R1/2 = CRT

(observation for all R0 SCC)
See gastric MacDonald et al, NEJM, 2001
Smalley et al, JCO, 2012

Esophageal and Esophagogastric Junction Cancers. NCCN 2021.
23
Cervical esophagusH&P. Smoking cessation

Labs: CBC, CMP, liver panel

Imaging: EGD with biopsy, EUS, CT, PET

functional testing:
consider bronch to look for fistula and PFTs in preparation for therapy if upper lesion. If fistula present place stent
50.4 Gy, or dose escalate to 60-70 Gy since unresectable. Include SCV nodes in initial volume to 45 Gy plus margin on esophagus
supine, wingboard, small amount of oral contrast50.4-70 Gy
Can use IMRT, or 3D techniques. Include esophagus as below plus SCV nodes.

lateral parallel opposed (or oblique) portals to the primary and a single anterior field for the SCV and mediastinal nodes

alternatively 4 field box with wax bolus around the neck above the shoulders

Or anterior wedged pairs, or posterior obliques with a single AP field
Taxol 50 and carbo AUC 2 both given weekly

Or cisplatin and 5FU (Zenda)
MS 15 mos
LC 50%
2-yr OS 35%
(Minsky)

CR 73%
(Zenda)
RTOG 9405, Minsky et al, JCO, 2002

Zenda et al, IJROBP, 2016

CROSS
Hagan et al, NEJM, 2012
Shapiro et al, Lancet Oncol, 2015
24
Esophagus locally advanced, ≥T2H&P. Smoking cessation

Labs: CBC, CMP, liver panel

Imaging: EGD with biopsy, EUS, CT, PET

functional testing: consider
J tube, sometimes PEG tube
45 Gy in 25 fx followed by boost of 5.4 Gy in 3 fx. Include celiac for distal and GEJ tumors

41.4 Gy alone is an option for those who are likely to undergo surgery.
supine, wingboard, small amount of oral contrastPre-op or definitive
PTV1: 45 Gy
PTV boost: 5.4 Gy

Pre-op only
41.4 Gy
CTV = primary with 4 cm sup/inf and 0.5-1 cm radial. Include SCV nodes for tumor above carina. Include celiac nodes for distal and GEJ. If the celiac and volumes do not connect, contour PA region down aorta to connect esophagus portion with celiac. Lung is tradiationally not cropped from the CTV, but convincing reasons why not are lacking.

PTV of 0.5 cm

For Boost PTV add 0.5 cm to GTV

Wu, esophagus atlas, IJROBP, 2016
Taxol 50 and carbo AUC 2 both given weekly

Adjuvant nivolumanb for partial response to chemoRT
RTOG 1010
Lung V5<50
V10<40
V20<25
V30<20
MLD <20
Heart V40<50, Mean <30, max <52
Kidney V20<30, Max<45
Cord <45 Gy
Liver Mean <21 Gy, V30<30
risk of positive nodes:
T1a: 7%
T1b: 20%
T2: 40%

Anatomic divisions
Sternal notch -> Upper thoracic -> azygous vein -> middle thoracic -> inferior pulmonary vein -> lower thoracic
5-yr OS 47%
MS 49 mos
pCR SCC 46%
pCR adeno 23%
LRR 3.3%
DR alone 20%

CROSS
Hagan et al, NEJM, 2012
Shapiro et al, Lancet Oncol, 2015

Checkmate 577, Kelly et al, NEJM, 2021

RTOG 1010 (NCT01196390)

Wu et el, IJROBP, 2015
25
Esophagus unresectable, non-cervical45 Gy with boost to 50.4 as above
No evidence for dose escalation below cervical location
PTV1: 45 Gy
PTV boost: 5.4 Gy
Taxol and carbo, or cisplatin and 5FU. CROSS
Hagan et al, NEJM, 2012
Shapiro et al, Lancet Oncol, 2015
26
Gastric post-op

NCCN indications:
R1/R2 resection

Consider also for those who did not undergo D2 resection with high-risk features such as poorly differentiated or higher grade cancer, lymphovascular invasion, neural invasion, or <50 years of age
History and physical

Labs: CBC, CMP, liver panel

Upper GI with biopsy and H pylori testing, EUS, CT A/P, consider PET

Functional testing:
J tube consult if Kcal <1500, renal perfusion scan (not needed if planning for IMRT)

Surgery: subtotal gastrectomy, 5 cm margin on tumor (otherwise total gastrectomy) with D2 dissection
removing >15 LNs, ex lap to look for peritoneal disease

Total gastrectomy for large or proximal/fundus lesions

Ivor-Lews esophagectomy if tumor at GEJ, Seweirt III
45 Gy/ 25 fx
Contouring: Include anastomosis. Always include whole stomach except for GEJ tumors. Include nodes related to adhesion for T4. For T3N0, may cover only perigastric nodes.

For N+ or T4, cover extra nodes:
Sources vary on nodes to cover.
Simple method: Include all nodes for each site, except spleen nodes only for proximal and middle location

Gunderson:
Elective nodes (always include perigastric, celiac, SMA?, PH?, and around aorta):
GEJ: proximal perigastric, periesophageal, PA/celiac, MS
Cardia/prox 1/3: perigastric, celiac/PA,
splenic, suprapancreatic
Body/middle 1/3: perigastric, celiac,
splenic, suprapancreatic, pancreatoduodenal, portahepatis
antrum/pylorus/distal 1/3: perigastric, celiac, suprapancreatic, pancreatoduodenal, porta hepatic,
optional splenic hilum
Historically renal scan was done first because 3D fields may damage kidneys. If doing IMRT a renal scan should not be necessary

supine, 4DCT, wingboard, empty stomach, small amount of oral contrast. Treat daily on empty stomach
45 GyIMRT is allowed on NCCN. Use daily CBCT.

3D Anteroposterior–Posteroanterior (AP–PA) Field

Superior border: (remember, celiac at T12 (or top of L1 and SMA at L1. IMA at L3) bottom of T8 or T9 to cover the celiac axis, GE junction, fundus, and the dome of the left hemidiaphragm.
Inferior border: bottom of L3 to cover the gastroduodenal nodes and the antrum.
Left border: Include two thirds to three fourths of the left hemidiaphragm to cover fundus, suprapancreatic nodes, and splenic nodes.
Right border: Field is 3 to 4 cm lateral to the vertebral bodies to cover the antrum, porta hepatis, and gastroduodenal nodes.

Lateral Field (opposed lats if doing 4 field. AP/PA only is possible in many patients. Weight AP>PA to get off cord)
Anterior border: Anterior abdominal wall.
Posterior border: one half to two thirds of the vertebral bodies.

Post-op gastric contouring atlas, Harvard, Wo, IJROBP, 2012

Nancy Lee et al, Target Volume Delineation for Conformal and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy, 2015
Concurrent 5FU or capecitabine with 1 cycle before chemo and 2 cycles after

The non-concurrent portion can be done with ECF, epirubicin, cisplatin, 5FU, or with 5FU/LV.

ECF gives same outcomes as 5FU/LV and les toxocity

cord dmax<45
heart V40<30%
2/3 of one kidney<20 Gy
liver V30<60%
bowel max<54 Gy, V45<15% (20cc), V30<200cc
Start 20-40 days after surgery. One cycle of chemo is given during waitIf no proximal stomach, make sure to supplement with B12, Ca, and iron 5-yr OS 44% (MacDonald)
MS 36 mos
LR 7%

INT 0116, Macdonald et al, NEJM, 2001

CRITICS, Cats et al, Lancet Oncol, 2018

Nancy Lee et al, Target Volume Delineation for Conformal and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy, 2015

NCCN 2023.
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Gastric T1-T2Tis: ER
T1a: ER
T1b: surgery
NCCN. Gastric Cancer.
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Gastric pre-op RTUnder protocol in TOPGEAR

Investigational
45 Gy in 25 fx 45 GyCarbo taxol (category 1 NCCN)

Or cis/5FU or oxali/5FU
pCR 26%, 1 yr OS 72%, Median OS 23 mos If pCR, then 1 yr OS 82%RTOG 9904, Ajani et al, JCO, 2006

Wu et al, World J Gastrointest Surg, 2012

TOPGEAR, Leong et al, BMC Cancer, 2015
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Gastric peri-op chemoT2 and aboveNo RTperioperative FLOT (docetaxel, oxaliplatin, 5-FU, LV)

(better OS than ECF)
Periop chemo vs. post-op chemo RT results in same LC and OS, but post-op chemoRT has less heme toxicity in CRITICS study. But, peri-op FLOT has better OS than peri-op ECF in FLOT4-AIO studyFLOT4-AIO, Al-Batran et al, ASCO, 2017
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Borderline pancreasBorderline resectable:
Head/uncinate process: contacts common hepatic artery or SMA <180, but NOT celiac
Body/tail: celiac axis contact <180. Can contact >180 if no involvement of aorta or gastroduodenal artery (some say this is unresectable)

SMV or PV of >180 is borderline resectable if suitable vessel is present proximal and distal for reconstruction.
If contour irregularity or thrombus in SMV/PV, then tumor can involve only <180 and be borderline. Tumor can contact IVC and be borderline.
50.4 Gy, up to 60 Gy, possibly more

PREOPANC: gem x3 cycles 1000 mg/m2 + 36 Gy/ 15 fx IMRT in 2.4 Gy per fx during cycle 2 → surgery → adjuvant gem x4

Or SBRT as below
supine, wingboard, gating/4DCT, abdominal compression, oral contrast, IV contrast in late arterial/early portal phase (Scan delay of 35-50 seconds)50.4-60 Gy

36 Gy/ 15 fx (w gem)
GTV is gross disease plus nodes.

CTV varies per study. Some use no CTV. Might extend CTV toward the borderline vessels. Do not extend CTV into duodenum. ESTRO-ACROP says to consider a CTV if tumor size <3cm

PTV per institution. Use 4DCT or gating
Induction FOLFIRINOX or gemzar + nab-paclitaxol

Concurrent capacitabine 825 mg BID concurrent with conventional

high dose gem concurrent with 15 fractions
Conventional:
stomach, duodenum, small intestine Max dose <54 Gy. Some protocols allow max dose <58 Gy
Liver mean <25Gy
Cord max 45 Gy
single kidney: D30%<18Gy

15 fractions
See Koay et al, PRO, 2020 for 15 fractions constraints, although not necessarily for chemo
(The dose contraints in PREOPANC were liberal: no limitation on small bowel was required)
borderline resectable = no DM, abutment of SMA up to 180 degrees, SMV/portal vein impingement or narrowing, SMF occlusion that can be reconstructed, gastroduodenal artery encasement up to hepatic artery.RTOG 0848, Safran et al, JCO, 2017

NCCN. Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma.

LAP07, Hammel et al, JAMA, 2013

PRODIGE 24/CCTG PA.6, Conroy et al, NEJM, 2018

PREOPANC, Versteijne et al, JCO, 2022

Dose escalation
Crane et al, J Radiat Res, 2016
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SBRT pancreas, borderline or unresectableSBRT 25-50 Gy in 3-5 fractions. Consider 45-50 Gy to tumor and 25-35 Gy to the posterior and vessels margin. May need to undercover the tumor slightly to spare bowel.empty stomach, supine, wingboard, gating/4DCT, abdominal compression, IV contrast in late arterial/early portal phase (Scan delay of 35-50 seconds). Fiducials if required. Oral contrast could enlarge bowel size

Fuse with MRI
SBRT
25-50 Gy/ 5 fx
consider SIB to vessels
GTV: primary tumor, no nodes

CTV: optional. Consider extending CTV posteriorly to vessel margin. ESTRO-ACROP says to consider a CTV if tumor size <3cm

PTV: per institution, 5 mm
Induction first with FOLFIRONOX or gem abraxane

PREOPANC used concurrent, induction, and adjuvant gemcitabine
TROG and AGITG guidelines (5 fractions)
Duodenum/small bowel/stomach
Dmax 0.5 cc <33 Gy (VA <35)
V30 <5 cc (VA <10 cc)
Duodenum/small bowel/stomach PRV
Dmax 0.5 cc <38 Gy (VA <40)
PTV40 D99 >30 (VA > 25)
PTV40 EVAL D90 >100 (VA > 90)
CTV D99 > 33 (VA > 30)
PTV40 D0.05 max 110-130 (VA >140 or <110)

Koay et al, PRO, 2020 (Rx 50 Gy/5 fx with SIB 33 Gy)
iduodenum V40 <0.5cc, V35 < 1cc, V30 <3cc
istomach, sm bowel V 40 <0.5cc, V35 <1cc, V30 <2cc
liver V12 <50%
bile duct max <55 Gy
PTV high (50 Gy) covered to 90-95%
PTV low (33 Gy) covered to 98%
posterior tumor vessels covered to 40 Gy
Petrelli et al, IJROBP, 2017

PRODIGE 24/CCTG PA.6, Conroy et al, NEJM, 2018

Dose escalation
Crane et al, J Radiat Res, 2016

Dose constraints
TROG and AGITG, Oar et al, PRO, 2019
Koay et al, PRO, 2020
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Post-op pancreas, head or tailH&P

Labs: CBC, CMP, CEA, CA-19-9, amylase, lipase, liver panel

EUS (preferred) with biopsy, CT C/A/P with contrast in 3 phases per pancreatic protocol. Only do ERCP/MRCP if no mass seen. Can consider PET, but not a substitute for high quality CT

--> Whipple procedure (for head and body tumors)

Distal pancreatectomy for tail tumors (not Whipple)


Three phase pancreas CT:
-Noncontrast phase: Will show calcifications that could otherwise be confused with contrast
-Early arterial phase, 20 sec. Will show arterial anatomy
-late arterial/early portal phase. Scan delay of 35-50 seconds. Optimal attenuation between enhancing parenchyma and tumor in this phase.
-Late portal, venous phase: scan delay of 70-80 seconds. Shows lymph nodes, liver mets, peritoneal implants
50.4 to entire tumor bed and nodes

or 45 Gy to tumor bed and nodes + 5.4 Gy boost with 2 cm margin to tumor bed

Decreasing in use as more efficacious chemo regimens are discovered and trials show lack of OS benefit with RT. Some may treat only post-op bed for postive margin.
supine, wingboard, gating, abdominal compression, oral contrast, IV contrast. nodes: 45 Gy
boost -M to 50.4 Gy
boost +M to 60-66 Gy

or single phase 50.4 Gy
Tumor bed: per operartive and path reports, fusion of pre-op imaging, pancreatic-jejunostomy anastamosis

Per protocol field to cover post-op bed and nodes: expand clips, SMA, celiac, PJ, PV all with 1cm margin, then aorta (with 3cm right, 2cm ant, 1 cm left and 0.2 cm post), cover aorta from top of field made by other structures down to bottom of L2 (lower if preop GTV lower). However, take note of individual anatomy. Mnemonic: "PPACTS"

Head nodes: common hepatic, celiac, hepatoduodenal, superior mesenteric, anterior and posterior pancreato-duodenal, PA nodes from celiac to left renal vein, superior and inferior pancreatic head nodes (ESTRO-ACROP)

Body and tail nodes: common hepatic, celiac, hepatoduodenal, superior mesenteric, PA nodes from celiac to left renal vein, sub pancreatic nodes, splenic artery (ESTRO-ACROP)

RTOG post-op pancreas atlas
ESTRO-ACROP pancreas target guidelines
Reduced volumes: Dholakia, IJROBP, 2013
econtour.org
Consider induction FOLFIRINOX or gemzar + nab-paclitaxol

Then concurrent capacitabine 825 mg BID

If induction chemo is not used, give adjuvant mFOLFIRINOX
9704 field borders - T11 to L3, 2 cm margin on tumor, 2 cm from R vertebral body (includes hepatic hilum, pancreatic remnant, and 1.5-2.0 cm from vertebral bodies to cover periaortics). Laterals: posterior border split vertebral body, ant border 2 cm in front of mass and block out small bowel if able. Median OS 54 mos, DFS 22 mos with FOLFIRINOX (PRODIGE)

3-yr OS 30%, LF 30%, MS 21 mos, DM 73% (RTOG 9704)

PRODIGE 24/CCTG PA.6, Conroy et al, NEJM, 2018

ESTRO-ACROP guidelines, Brunner et al, Radiother Oncol, 2020

RTOG 9704
Regine et al, JAMA, 2008
Regine et al, Ann Surg Oncol, 2011

Reduced volumes
Dholakia et al, IJROBP, 2013
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Unresectable pancreasInduction gem-nab-paclitaxel or FOLFIRINOX
Often treated with chemo only, not radiation
50.4-70 Gy, consider BED near 100 if feasible. Some regions may be undercovered by dose.
supine, wingboard, gating, abdominal compression, oral contrast, IV contrast in late arterial/early portal phase (Scan delay of 35-50 seconds)50.4-70 GyGTV is gross disease. Typically no elective nodal volume.

Many use no CTV. Consider 0.5-1 cm. ESTRO-ACROP says to consider a CTV if tumor size <3cm

PTV per institution.
Consider induction FOLFIRINOX or gemzar + nab-paclitaxol

Then concurrent capacitabine 825 mg BID
stomach, duodenum, small intestine Max dose <54 Gy. Some protocols allow max dose <58 Gy
Liver mean <25Gy
Cord max 45 Gy
single kidney: D30%<18Gy
MS 16 mos, LC 45% (LAP 07)

OS benefit with RT in GITSG and ECOG studies. LC benefit in LAP07.
RTOG 0848, Safran et al, JCO, 2017
Conroy et al, PRODIGE 24/CCTG PA.6, NEJM, 2018
NCCN
LAP07, Hammel et al, JAMA, 2013
Dose escalation
Crane et al, J Radiat Res, 2016
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SBRT liver metsConsider dosing per RTOG 1112 below in HCC sectionSimulate in supine position with SBRT body fixer, abdominal compression, IV contrast in portal venous phase, 4DCT or breath hold at exahalation. Contour on MinIP. Fiducials needed for CyberKnifeSBRT 27.5-50 Gy/ 5 fxCTV 3-5 mm optional

PTV per institution: goal < 10 mm
NRG GI003
The rx dose is guided by the mean liver dose achievable:
50 Gy for ≤13 Gy of mean liver minus GTV
45 Gy for ≤14 Gy
40 Gy for ≤15 Gy
35 Gy for ≤15.5 Gy
30 Gy for ≤16 Gy
Deviations of 1% (or 2% variation acceptable) from mean liver dose for each dose level were allowed

small bowel, duodenum, stomach, esophagus D0.5cc <30 Gy

Large bowel D0.5cc<32 Gy
Both kidneys D33% < 15 Gy
Both kidneys mean < 10 Gy
Both kidneys D10% < 7 Gy
Heart D0.5cc < 20 Gy
Gallbladder D0.5cc < 55 Gy (RTOG 1112)

premedicate with anti-emetics, PPIMedian OS 22 mos
LC for BED >100 of 77%
LC for BED <100 of 60%
LC for tumors >40 cc of 52 mos
LC for tumors <40 cc of 39 mos
Lee et al JCO, 2009

Rusthoven et al, JCO, 2009

Mahadevan et al, Radiat Oncol, 2018

RTOG 0438 (NCT00255814)

RTOG 1112 (NCT01730937)
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HCC with tumor thrombosis, pre-opHistory: alcohol abuse, bleeding, esophageal varices, encephalopathy, lactulose, lasix, ascites

Imaging: triple phase MRI liver (CT can also be done) (MRI results should be diagnostic. Bx not needed. Enhances on arterial phase and washout on venous phase), CT abdomen

Labs: AFP, liver labs, hepatitis panel, INR, plt, albumin

Calculate Child Pugh Score (if C, mortality risk may outweight benefits). Scoring factors include bilirubin, albumin, INR, ascites, encephalophaty
18 Gy/ 3 fx then surgery 3 months after RTSimulate in supine position, abdominal compression, IV contrast in portal venous phase, 4DCT or breath hold at exahalation. Contour on MinIP.18 Gy/ 3 fx3DCRT
CTV 5-10 mm
PTV 5-10 mm per institution
3 mos after RT1-yr OS 75% vs. 43%
2-yr OS 27% vs. 9%

PR 21%, CR 0%
Wei et al, JCO, 2019
36
HCC SBRTIn RTOG 1112: total volume up to 20 cm, ≤5 mets, any single lesion up to 15 cm, and macrovascular invasion were permitted

History: alcohol abuse, bleeding, esophageal varices, encephalopathy, lactulose, lasix, ascites

Imaging: triple phase MRI liver (CT can also be done) (MRI results should be diagnostic. Bx not needed. Enhances on arterial phase and washout on venous phase), CT abdomen

Labs: AFP, liver labs, hepatitis panel, INR, plt, albumin

Calculate Child Pugh Score. Scoring factors include bilirubin, albumin, INR, ascites, encephalophaty
SBRT dose as high as feasible per mean liver dose achievable (NRG GI-003)

50 Gy for ≤13 Gy of mean liver minus GTV
45 Gy for ≤14 Gy
40 Gy for ≤15 Gy
35 Gy for ≤15.5 Gy
30 Gy for ≤16 Gy

Various doses have been used in Phase I/II trials.

Consider combining with TACE

RT can be used for bridge to transplant if patient meets UNOS criteria
Potentially curative for patients who aren't operable candidates, but not much data. Surgical resection is preferred
Simulate in supine position with SBRT body fixer, abdominal compression, IV contrast in portal venous phase, 4DCT or breath hold at exahalation. Contour on MinIP. Fiducials needed for CyberKnifeSBRT 30-50 Gy/ 5 fxPTV per institution: goal < 10 mm

CTV: none (consider including previous TACE or RFA sites, or tumor thrombi)
NRG GI003
The rx dose is guided by the mean liver dose achievable:
50 Gy for ≤13 Gy of mean liver minus GTV
45 Gy for ≤14 Gy
40 Gy for ≤15 Gy
35 Gy for ≤15.5 Gy
30 Gy for ≤16 Gy
Deviations of 1% (or 2% variation acceptable) from mean liver dose for each dose level were allowed

small bowel, duodenum, stomach, esophagus D0.5cc <30 Gy

Large bowel D0.5cc<32 Gy
Both kidneys D33% < 15 Gy
Both kidneys mean < 10 Gy
Both kidneys D10% < 7 Gy
Heart D0.5cc < 20 Gy
Gallbladder D0.5cc < 55 Gy (RTOG 1112)

NCCN. Hepatobilliary Cancers, 2019.

RTOG 1112, Dawson et al, ASTRO, 2022
NRG GI003 (NCT03186898)

TACE+RT
Yoon et al, JAMA Oncol, 2018
Meng et al, Radiother Oncol, 2009

RT after failure of TACE
Comito et al, EASL, 2020

Surgery vs. RT
Su et al, IJROBP, 2017
37
Biliary

(intra/ extrahepatic cholangio-carcinoma, gallbladder)
CT/MRI, chest CT, cholangiography, consider CEA and CA 19-9, amylase, lipase, LFTs, EUS

Distal extrahepatic: whipple
positive margin in extraheptatic or gallbladder:
4 cycles capecitabine/gem then RT + capecitabine to 45 Gy then 54-59.4 Gy boost (SWOG 0809)

For negative margins treat with 6 mos capecitabine alone

Less evidence for RT for R1 in intrahepatic
PTV1: 45 Gy
PTV boost to 54-59.4 Gy
CTV1 = tumor bed, portal vein nodes, sometimes pancreatic or celiac depending on location

CTV2 = tumor bed (often use wide margins such as +1.5 cm or more) and positive margins, ITV on 4D CT and 0.5 cm PTV radially and 0.7 cm sup/inf

Consider expanding CTV bigger along ducts into liver
R1: Concurrent cape with RT

Negative margins: 6 mos capecitabine

Unresectable for extra or intrahepatic: gem/cis without RT
SWOG 0809 extrahepatic biliary: MS 35 mos, 2-yr OS 65%

cis/gem systemic therapy only: MS 12 mos (ABC trial)
SWOG 0809, Ben-Josef et al, JCO, 2015

ABC-02, Valle et al, NEJM, 2018

ASCO Biliary guidelines for adjuvant therapy, Shroff et al, JCO, 2019
38
Anal adenocarcinomaTreat as rectal cancer, no matter what location of anuscover inguinals with RTNCCN. Anal Carcinoma, 2019.
39
Anal cancer with oligometastatic disease to liver, lung, PA nodesChemoRT to primary and oligometastasesPA nodes
3-yr DFS 42%, 3-yr DM 50%, 3-yr OS 67%
NCCN. Anal Carcinoma, 2019.
Holliday et al, IJROBP, 2018
40
Oligometastatic rectal with resectable liver or lung metsSynchronus=observed prior to definitive treatment or 3 months after

(Metachronus= developed after initial treatment)
Consider: neoadj chemoRT (with or without initial FOLFOX) --> surgery of primary AND resection of mets (or SBRT of mets)--> FOLFOX x6

SBRT can be used but colorectal tumors are relatively radioresistant and surgery is preferred
NCCN. Rectal Cancer.
41
Colon surveillance Lynch syndrome: colonoscopy at age 20-25 or earlier at 2-5 years prior of relative diagnosed prior to age 25, then repeat every 1-2 years

FAP: Most are APC+. This is autosomal dominant version. if APC+, start screening age 15 and do yearly. The APC negative type is autosomal recessive and can be screened per normal guidelines

Cowden and Li-Fraumini: counsel per breast and ovarian guidelines. No increase in colon screening
Lynch syndrome=hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. Endometrial, ovarian, and colon, other parts of GI tract cancers. MSH and MLH. Autosomal dominant

Li-Fraumini: sarcoma, adrenal, breast, brain, leukemia (SBLA). P53, autosomal dominant.

Cowden: hemartomas, breast, thyroid, uterus, thyroid, kidney, colorectal cancers. PTEN Mutation. Autosomal dominant
NCCN. Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment, 2019.
NCCN. Colorectal Cancer Screening, 2019.
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