Comparing Photon and Proton Radiotherapy for Early Stage Tonsil Cancer in Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating treatments for patients with early squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsil, specifically those with clinical stage T1-2 and certain lymph node involvements based on p16 status. This trial compares two types of radiotherapyusing photons conventional radiotherapy and protonsto see how they perform when used alone and targeted to one side ipsilateral with curative intent. The study is sponsored by Lund University Hospital and involves random assignment to either treatment group. Participants will receive radiotherapy delivered either with photons or protons. The treatment plan involves a 7-week radiotherapy course, with patients randomized in a 11 ratio to one of the two radiotherapy methods. Surgery may be performed after radiotherapy only as a salvage intervention and not as part of the planned treatment, and prior diagnostic procedures such as lymph node excision or tonsillectomy do not exclude participation. During the trial, acute side effects are monitored weekly from the third week of radiotherapy until treatment completion. Late side effects are assessed starting 2 to 3 months after radiotherapy ends, continuing every 3 months for 2 years, and then every 6 months until 5 years post-treatment. Patients must be capable of giving informed consent and have a good performance status to participate, with ongoing safety and outcome evaluations conducted throughout the study period.

Photon Therapy Versus Proton Therapy in Early Tonsil Cancer.