Effects of radiation on the lung.
Since the beginning of the twentieth century, radiation has been employed as a tool to cure or palliate malignancy. Unfortunately, soon after its discovery, the harmful effects of radiation were recognized as well. As our understanding of the physiologic responses to radiation increases, we can refine the routes of delivery and dosages of radiation administered. The use of three-dimensional treatment planning and the manipulation of the biochemical response with drugs and synthesized cytokines offers promise in curtailing the undesirable effects of irradiation. Side effects will be minimized and benefits maximized with further technologic developments that will more accurately control the delivery of and response to radiation.
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Department of Medicine, Loyola University of Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
Gross
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NJ
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000528:radiation effects*; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D010166:Palliative Care; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D017564:Radiation Pneumonitis / Q000209:etiology*; D011837:Radiation-Protective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D011880:Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted; D013679:Technology, Radiologic
D016207:Cytokines; D011837:Radiation-Protective Agents