Radiotherapy activities and technological equipment in Veneto, Italy: a report from the Rete Radioterapica Veneta.

Background: Despite the pivotal role of radiotherapy in oncology, the provision of radiation treatments remains inadequate in many areas of the world. The present report is an assessment conducted among Radiation Oncology centers of Veneto region with the aim to collect information concerning radiotherapy assets and technological equipment availability.

Methods: Data concerning Veneto Radiation Oncology departments about radiotherapy activities, number of treatments, techniques used and radiotherapy machines available were collected.

Estimated direct costs of non-small cell lung cancer by stage at diagnosis and disease management phase: A whole-disease model.

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the first cause of cancer-related death among men and the second among women worldwide. It also poses an economic threat to the sustainability of healthcare services. This study estimated the direct costs of care for patients with NSCLC by stage at diagnosis, and management phase of pathway recommended in local and international guidelines.

Radiotherapy during COVID-19 pandemic. How to create a No fly zone: a Northern Italy experience.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 pandemic represents a troubling health emergency but also a main challenge for the clinical governance of the system. Discontinuation of radiation treatments is not desirable and potentially life-threatening. On the other hand, accesses to hospital expose cancer patients to an increased risk of COVID-19 infection.

Pituitary Non-Functioning Adenoma Disclosed at 18F-Choline PET/CT to Investigate a Prostate Cancer Relapse.

We report the incidental finding of a pituitary macroadenoma on an F-choline PET/CT in a patient with recurrent prostate cancer. The pituitary gland was clearly enlarged and intensely FDG avid (SUVmax, 6.6).

Breakthrough pain management in patients undergoing radiotherapy: a national survey on behalf of the Palliative and Supportive Care Study Group.

Aims: To assess the contribution of radiation oncologists in Italy in current management of breakthrough pain (BtP).

Methods: In 2012, the Palliative and Supportive Care Study Group of the Italian Association of Radiation Oncology (AIRO) proposed a survey. All Italian radiation oncologists were individually invited to complete an online questionnaire regarding their management of BtP in patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment.