Dosimetry intercomparisons and protocols for therapeutic applications of fast neutron beams

For an adequate evaluation and comparison of clinical results obtained at different neutron therapy centers, the neutron dosimetry procedures should be consistent. A considerable number of neutron dosimetry intercomparisons has been performed during the past 5 years; the general conclusions resulting from these intercomparisons are summarized. Protocol for neutron dosimetry for radiotherapy have been drafted for the European and American groups involved in fast neutron radiotherapy. The highlights of the protocols are discussed and the differences between them reported. Although adoption of uniform basic parameters is desirable, it seems equally important to standardize the experimental techniques employed for the determination of absorbed dose. The introduction of a secondary standard or a transfer dosimeter would be of great importance for the consistency of neutron dosimetry for biological and medical applications. (author)