Short Course Versus Standard Course Radiotherapy, in Elderly and/or Fragile Patients with Glioblastoma Multiform (GBM)

Closed for Proposals

Project Type

Coordinated Research Project

Project Code

E33033

CRP

1521

Approved Date

2008.12.11

Project Status

Closed

Start Date

2009.02.04

Expected End Date

2015.02.04

Completed Date

2015.03.27

Description

Brain tumours represent less than 1.5% of all cancer. Glioblastoma multiforme is the most frequent malignant glioma occuring in adults. The treatment of glioblastoma multiforme is an important issue in radiation oncology worldwide, especially in developing countries. By optimizing fractionation in palliative setting of these tumors, it is expected that Member States will benefit from the rational use of the existing equipment and staff levels, decreasing costs, and improving patients’ access to radiotherapy, yet providing effecrtive treatment for such patients. This CRP continues Agency’s research efforts that have improved clinical practice in palliative radiotherapy in other settings.

Objectives

This study assessed the effect of a one-week radiotherapy regimen in comparison with a three-week radiotherapy regimen on the overall survival of elderly and/or frail patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Specific Objectives

1. Overall survival was the primary objective for this study.

Secondary objectives included comparison of health-related quality of life (HR QoL) between the two treatment arms.

Impact

Short course RT protocol for treatment of GBM in elderly and/or frail patients will help to deliver palliative care with efficient use of resources in all Member States.

Relevance

Research in palliative RT for GBM is relevant for all MSs.