Microdosimetry in BNCT

This paper explores the application of microdosimetry in the context of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). In particular it aims to elucidate the crucial role of microdosimetry in measuring dose enhancement resulting from elevated boron-10 concentrations in tumor cells during BNCT. A critical survey on microdosimetry is first given, to underline the relevance of the stochastic fluctuations of the radiation interactions at the microscopic level. Successively, the methodology of microdosimetric application to BNCT is reviewed. Significant examples are reported that help understanding the potentialities of microdosimetry on BNCT. The analysis involves examining the energy spectra in mixed radiation fields, taking into account both small and large energy events influenced by the stopping power and range of the particle. The findings of this study reveal valuable insights into the contribution of microdosimetry in BNCT. The analysis of energy spectra enables the differentiation of various components within the radiation field, both in terms of dose and of biological effectiveness. The results shed light on the dose enhancement attributed to higher concentrations of boron-10 in tumor cells, providing a comprehensive understanding of the biological effectiveness of boron neutron capture reaction products. This paper underscores the pivotal role of microdosimetry in BNCT, emphasizing its capability to unravel the intricacies of energy deposition and dose distribution at the micrometric scale. The application of microdosimetry emerges as a valuable tool in optimizing BNCT protocols and advancing our comprehension of radiation effects in targeted cancer therapy.