Dermo beta brachytherapy with 188-Re in squamous cell carcinoma of the penis: A new therapy

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis (SCCP) is the most common penis neoplasia, favoured by phimosis, HPV infection and scleroatrophic lichen. The classic therapy is surgical with anatomic demolition, which often causes important psychological problems. Other non-demolitive therapies can be utilized, such as radiotherapy, brachytherapy and topical medical treatment. Objectives: we propose a new non-invasive therapy called "Dermo beta brachytherapy (DBBT) with 188-Re" in which a synthetic inert resin-matrix containing a radioactive beta-emitting isotope is applied on the surface of the tumor lesion. Materials and methods: a total of 15 patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of SCCP were enrolled for treatment (DBBT). Results: of the 15 patients, 12 healed, 1 was lost at follow-up and 2 did not respond to therapy. Conclusion: The results indicate that DBBT is an effective treatment for SCC of the penis, sparing the anatomical integrity of the organ, and allowing normal sexual activity.