title: Radiation oncology.
abstract: Radiation may be used for the treatment of neoplastic lesions, either as a palliative measure or in an attempt at cure. Particulate or electromagnetic radiation can be obtained from a variety of machines and isotopes. Radiation therapy is the treatment of choice for certain malignancies and may be an acceptable alternative to surgery in others. Pre- or postoperative radiation is increasingly used to improve local control and survival. As with any therapeutic tool, acute and chronic complications may occur.
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D010166:Palliative Care; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011300:Preoperative Care; D011832:Radiation Injuries; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage