Early results with particle beam radiotherapy for WHO grade 2 and 3 meningioma

A study at Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center (China) evaluated particle beam radiotherapy (PBRT) for WHO grade 2 and 3 meningioma. With a median follow-up of 23.3 months, local control rates were 92%, 82%, and 82% at one, two, and three years, respectively, in the entire cohort. Local control rates were much better among patients with WHO grade 2 disease than among patients with WHO grade 3 disease. Multivariate analysis revealed that WHO grade (2 versus 3) was a significant prognosticator for local control. No grade 3 or higher toxicities were observed. The authors conclude that efficacy and safety of PBRT for WHO grade 2 and 3 meningioma were highly acceptable. Longer follow-up is needed to evaluate long-term disease control, survival, as well as potential late effects.