Advances and clinical significance of body composition analysis in radiation therapy
1Yan Ling,2Liao Zhengkai
1Department of Cardiology Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University Hubei Key Laboratory of Metabolic and Chronic Diseases Wuhan
430060 Hubei China
2Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center Wuhan 430071 Hubei China
Abstract：With the advancement of medical technology body composition analysis BCA as a non-invasive and user-friendly
assessment tool has played an increasingly significant role in the field of radiation therapy. BCA provides a new dimension for
evaluating the nutritional status of radiation therapy patients by precisely quantifying key indicators such as muscle mass fat mass and
body water content. These indicators not only reflect the metabolic status of patients but also predict treatment outcomes and potential
risks of adverse reactions providing a scientific basis for the formulation of personalized radiation therapy plans. Currently the
application of BCA in the management of radiation therapy patients has demonstrated remarkable potential optimizing treatment
regimens improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing toxic side effects thereby enhancing patients' quality of life. This review
summarizes recent research progress on the application of BCA in radiation therapy patients explores the effects of radiation therapy on
patients' body composition and the relationship between these changes and treatment outcomes and patient prognosis. Meanwhile it
evaluates currently used BCA methods including their advantages and limitations. We aim to promote the routine clinical application of
BCA in radiation therapy providing patients with more personalized and effective treatment plans through precise body composition
analysis. Furthermore this article looks into the future development directions of BCA technology and how technological innovations
can meet clinical needs further enhancing the scientificity and effectiveness of radiation therapy
