Boron neutron capture therapy – redefining radiotherapy

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has been an uprising in the field of cancer therapy. It is based on the nuclear capture reaction and the fission reactions that occur when a non-radioactive element such as boron is bombarded with thermal neutrons. The primary concern in BNCT is the concentration of the boron compound within the tumor cells. More the concentration of boron compound within the tumor cells better is the action of BNCT. Thus, BNCT is considered to be a biologic mode of treatment rather than a targeted treatment modality. BNCT may be used as an adjunctive treatment or in combination with other modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, and external beam radiation therapy, which, when used together, may result in an improvement in patient survival. This paper highlights on the principle of BNCT, its mechanism of action and its application in treatment of head and neck cancer.