A review on radiochromic film dosimetry in radiation therapy

Radiochromic films (RCFs) are ubiquitous in radiation oncology clinical and research settings to measure the radiation dose over a two-dimensional (2D) area due to their high spatial resolution, water-equivalency, and relative ease-of-use. Upon irradiation, the constituent monomers of the active layer of RCFs undergo polymerization, leading to a visible darkening that enables quantitative dosimetry. Quantitative RCF dosimetry requires film calibration against a reference dosimeter. Film darkening depends on various radiation-field and environmental parameters that need to be carefully considered to ensure the highest accuracy in film dosimetry. Several commercially available RCF models offer distinct dynamic dose ranges, allowing users to select appropriate options based on specific dosimetric needs. Here, we provide a review on the progress and practice of RCF dosimetry.