Accelerated partial breast irradiation: an updated report from the American Brachytherapy Society

Logistical barriers of time and travel created by the conventional six week course of radiotherapy prevent many women from pursuing breast conservation treatment. For the past 12 years, Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiaiton (APBI) has been investigated as a potential alternative treatment approach in women with early stage breast cancer. The ability to complete treatment in five days has the potential to provide additional women with the option of breast conservation. The validity of this APBI is supported in the study of in-breast recurrence patterns, pathologic data and the clinical treatment experience. The review of the recent data on contemporary APBI reveals that patient selection criteria and brachytherapy quality assurance are clearly critical components and necessary to assure a successful treatment outcome. This updated report from the American Brachytherapy Society on Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation reviews the appropriate background data supporting this treatment approach with conclusions regarding patient selection criteria and treatment delivery.