The role of prophylactic lung cancer irradiation in patients (with stage M1 disease) without chest symptoms.
The outcome with prophylactic lung cancer irradiation (PLCI) in persons with stage M1 disease but without chest symptoms was assessed in a retrospective review of 68 cases. Eighteen individuals (group A) received PLCI while 50 did not (group B). Median survival was similarly short (4 and 2 months, respectively) in group A and B. Twenty-one patients were evaluable concerning subsequent symptomatic local tumor progression (SLTP) based on clinical and radiographic manifestations. Three of 16 (19%) group B patients experienced SLTP, whereas none of the five in group A did (p = 0.26). Median survival was nine months in the latter and four months in the former patient set. The results suggested that, although PLCI may not enhance survival, it could promote a better quality of remaining life in these particular persons.
Ampil
F L
FL
Department of Radiology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Shreveport 71130.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002283:Carcinoma, Bronchogenic / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000556:secondary*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000528:radiation effects; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000532:radiotherapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies