BACKGROUND:Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LC) represents a devastating complication of systemic cancer, and patients with LC have a dismal prognosis and increased mortality. The few studies that have focused on the evaluation of prognostic factors in patients with LC have resulted in contradictory results. Thus, the treatment of LC remains controversial, and no straightforward guidelines exist in the literature. The objective of the current study was to identify prognostic markers related to LC survival to better select patients who are eligible for intensive treatment.METHODS:Seventy patients who had a diagnosis of LC were reviewed, and clinical data, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters, tumor‐related characteristics, and treatment information were registered. The impact of single parameters on overall survival was determined by both univariate and multivariate analyses.RESULTS:The multivariate analysis revealed that Radiation Therapy Oncology Group score ≤2 (P = .028), a glucose level in CSF ≥2.7 mmol/L (P = .001), the presence of infratentorial symptoms at onset (P = .026), and intrathecal treatment (P < .001) were associated independently with longer overall survival in patients with LC. In addition, the same clinical factors also predicted response to treatment in such patients.CONCLUSIONS:The predictive factors for patients with LC that were identified in this study could help to better select patients who are more likely to benefit from chemotherapy. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.

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There is a documented disparity in the distribution of radiotherapy (RT) services and professionals to address the cancer care needs across the continent of Africa. To further understand the current treatment landscape, we developed a survey to assess radiation oncology training, equipment, resources, and future needs. Materials/Methods: At the 2017 African Organization for Research & Training in Cancer (AORTIC) International Meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, a 37 question survey was distributed to radiation oncologists (RO), medical physicists (MP), and radiation therapy technologists (RTTs) in attendance to identify current capacity and challenges to providing cancer care. Paper surveys were available and an electronic link to completing the survey was distributed after the meeting. The survey was divided into 4 sections including: 1) Demographics and Training 2) Current Practice Capacity, 3) Future Needs, and 4) Case Vignettes. Results: A total of 24 completed surveys, representing 11 countries (Ethiopia,

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