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Title: Summing up: The physics of NCT

Conference ·
OSTI ID:10150238

Neutron Capture Therapy (NCT) is a binary system for treating tumors in which both an agent, usually B-10, and thermal neutrons are directed to a tumor where they combine and release lethal radiation. Directing the agent to the tumor is mainly a chemistry and biology problem, while the production, targeting and effects of the neutrons is mainly a physics problem. This paper briefly describes the, physics side of NCT as presented at this symposium, the neutron beams, the dosimetry and treatment planning, and the element identification. The development of the physical tools and methods are not now limiting the successful demonstration of NCT. Several epithermal neutron beams are available, dosimetry methods are in hand, and treatment planning methods can be ready when required. Methods of identifying elements have been demonstrated, but are not yet widely accessible. New methods could supply valuable additional information about the quantity and location of NCT elements, particularly on the microscopic scale and in vivo.

Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-76CH00016
OSTI ID:
10150238
Report Number(s):
BNL-48561; CONF-9309122-1; ON: DE93010867; TRN: 93:015182
Resource Relation:
Conference: 5. international symposium on neutron capture therapy,Columbus, OH (United States),12-17 Sep 1993; Other Information: PBD: [1993]
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English