Dual partial arc volumetric-modulated arc therapy: The game changer for accelerated hypofractionated whole-breast radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated tumor cavity boost in early breast cancer - A comparative dosimetric study with single partial arc volumetric-modulated arc therapy

Introduction: In a previous study, we demonstrated clinical and dosimetric feasibility of single partial arc volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for accelerated hypofractionated whole breast radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) to lumpectomy cavity for early breast cancer. In this dosimetric study, we compared dual partial arcs versus single arc. Patients and Methods: Fifteen consecutive patients for treatment with hypofractionated accelerated radiotherapy with SIB using VMAT were planned with single partial arc in an earlier study, initial result of which is published elsewhere. The comparative dosimetric plan was created using two partial arcs. Skewness and kurtosis test, Paired Student's t-test, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were applied for statistical analysis. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most planning targets are better achieved with dual arc technique. Coverage of planning target volume (PTV) whole breast (PTVWB) and PTV lumpectomy cavity (PTVBOOST) was significantly improved with dual partial arc without significant difference in conformity index and homogeneity index. Dual arc improved dosimetric parameter significantly. Mean dose (Dmean) and maximum dose (Dmax) of whole breast PTV as well as Dmax of PTVBOOST; ipsilateral and contralateral lung Dmean, Dmax, 5 Gy volume (V5); contralateral lung Dmean, Dmax, V5; Heart V25 and V18; Dmean of 5 mm thickness skin; Dmean and Dmax of ribs; and Dmean and Dmax of contralateral breast were improved with dual arc. Conclusion: This is first of its kind study establishing the advantage of dual partial arcs in the current context. Dual partial arcs improved dosimetry over single partial arc. Significant dose reduction can be achieved for multiple crucial organs at risk

Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections in Children

Invasive fungal infections are important causes of morbidity and mortality particularly in high-risk patients. Recognizing such infectionsis often difficult because of non-specific symptoms and clinical signs. Timely diagnosis is also a challenge due to difficulty in obtainingadequate volume of samples, need for anaesthesia to perform certain diagnostic procedures, and insufficient data and experiencerelated to fungal biomarkers and molecular detection tests. This results in widespread use of empiric broad spectrum antifungal agentswith the consequent emergence of drug-resistant strains. This review focusses on the definition, clinical and microbial profile anddiagnostic modalities for invasive fungal infections.

Transjugular liver biopsy: tips and tricks.

Transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB) is an important and relatively safer alternative to the traditional method of percutaneous liver biopsy, especially in patients with gross ascites or deranged bleeding parameters. In this article, we will highlight the instrumentation required for performing the procedure, the technical aspects of the procedure, the common complications encountered, and the troubleshooting methods to overcome the problems encountered during the procedure.