The Pros and Cons of Preliminary R&D of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy Based on Compact Neutron Generators: A Plan of Collaboration

The characteristics of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) for cancer treatment demand, in addition to sufficient fluxes of epithermal neutrons, proper conditions of the neutron sources—compact layout, flexible operation, compatibility with hospital setting, etc. These requirements are best satisfied by compact accelerator-driven sources (CANS). We discuss the trade-offs among different CANS options and the needed R&D in order to advance BNCT to an acceptable level of practical prevalence and cancer treatment scope. We focus our attention on compact neutron generators (CNGs) which are the most compact and least expensive. We argue that the usefulness of D-D CNGs for preliminary studies, in spite of the substantial lower fluxes, can be augmented by high-performance beam-shaping assemblies and discoveries of superior 10B-containing cancer-cell seeking drugs. The plausibility of BNCT treatment of breast cancer using neutrons from a DD-109 CNG (Adelphi Technology, Inc.) is assessed by calculating the distribution of photon equivalent dose on a breast phantom using Monte-Carlo (MCNPX) simulations.