QUANTEC 2
An update to the original QUANTEC reviews, covering the IMRT/VMAT era.
Objectives
Most of the data considered in the original QUANTEC reports came from the 3DCRT era. IMRT/VMAT technologies lead to DVHs distinctly different from 3DCRT. Consequently, toxicity data following IMRT/VMAT may, or may not, support recommendations made based on 3DCRT technology. In QUANTEC 2 dose-volume response and dose-volume threshold (DVH cut-off) analyses will be summarized. Toxicity data will be compared and contrasted between 3DCRT and IMRT/VMAT.
Regional sensitivity or detailed substructure analyses have been performed for many sites, e.g., white matter tracts rather than whole brain. Treatment planning protocols including targeted sparing of organ-subvolumes or substructures will be summarized.
Use of systemic therapy, in particular immunotherapy, has expanded since publication of the original QUANTEC reports. Systemic therapy serves as a mediator of the radiation response and this modulation will be addressed when applicable.
Machine learning in addition to traditional normal tissue complication probability models has become a common method to search for predictors of toxicity. Summary of these reports and their potential clinical use will be addressed.
Sites and toxicities
CNS
- Brain necrosis
- Brain cognition
- Brainstem
- Optic nerves/chiasm
- Brachial plexus
Head and neck
- Cochlea/hearing loss
- Larynx
- Pharynx
- Salivary glands/xerostomia
- Mandible/necrosis
- Thyroid/hypothyroidism
Thorax
- Lung
- Proximal airway
- Heart
- Esophagus
- Breast/fibrosis
Abdomen
- Liver
- Stomach
- Small bowel
- Kidney
Pelvis and miscellaneous
- Rectum
- Bladder
- Penile bulb and neurovascular bundle
- Bone marrow/hematologic toxicity
- Long bone/fracture
Status
The kick-off meeting took place during the ASTRO annual meeting on September 30th, 2025, and included representation from AAPM, ASTRO and ESTRO.
Get Involved
QUANTEC 2 is a collaborative effort. If you would like to contribute, get in touch.