Megavoltage electron beam therapy in the treatment of basal and squamous cell carcinomata of the pinna.

Kilovoltage X-ray therapy has considerable limitations when trying to obtain good functional results in patients with skin carcinomas arising on the pinna. Megavoltage electron beams with their better quality of radiation and homogeneous dose distribution have been recognised to have theoretical advantages. Forty-three patients with basal and squamous cell carcinomata arising on the pinna were treated radically using a 10 MeV electron beam. The technique and dosage are described and discussed. Primary cancer control with retention of the pinna was achieved in 34 patients. Salvage pinnectomy was performed in four patients for recurrence and one patient for radiation necrosis. Two patients with large primary tumours failed to resolve and died of their disease. The advantages for the patient of the policy of primary radical electron mean therapy are discussed.