Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT)
Boron neutron capture therapy combines a drug and a beam. A boron compound collects in cancer cells; a neutron beam then triggers a reaction that destroys those cells with little effect on surrounding tissue. Treatment is usually one or two sessions.
Who it may suit
- Head-and-neck cancers that have come back after radiotherapy
- Patients whose tumour takes up enough boron on testing
- People who cannot have more conventional radiation
What happens
- Review of records and imaging
- A test scan to check boron uptake in the tumour
- The boron infusion followed by the neutron session
- Monitoring and follow-up scans
Usually 2 to 4 weeks.
BNCT is available in Japan and China. It is not offered in North America.
Things to know. Evidence is still growing and case selection is strict. Swelling and mouth soreness are common after treatment.
Why an introduction matters
Many of China’s leading specialists work in busy public hospitals without international patient offices. They rarely answer enquiries from abroad directly, and a file sent without an introduction often goes unread. Cases usually reach them through people they already know and trust. Our team on the ground makes that introduction, presents your case properly in Chinese, and follows up until you have an answer.
Some programmes, especially stem-cell and other cell treatments, are experimental. We introduce them only if you ask and your own specialist agrees, and we never describe them as cures.