Factsheet

Dr. Geert O. Janssens; Dr. Matteo Maspero; Dr. Marry M. van den Heuvel-Eibrink  – Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands

Radiation therapy, alongside surgery and chemotherapy, is crucial for around 30% of children with kidney tumors. Radiation effectively destroys cancer cells, but it can also damage healthy tissue near the treatment area, especially in young children where growing tissues are most vulnerable. While initial side effects might seem mild, they often worsen over time as the tissue fails to grow properly. Children who undergo radiation may face physical problems later in life, such as fatigue, skin issues, pain, or even a heightened risk of developing secondary cancers.

To minimize the harmful effects of radiation, precise marking of the target area is essential. Currently, this marking is done manually by specialists, which is time-consuming and subject to variation between experts. This project aims to explore whether artificial intelligence (AI), specifically deep learning, can make this process faster and more consistent. The goal is to increase efficiency, reduce the risk of side effects, and promote broader acceptance and standardization of this treatment worldwide.