Use of Palliative Radiation Therapy

Abstract

Radiation therapy is a highly successful method of palliation in many cases of apparently incurable cancer. However, although occasionally it results in clinical cure, it should not be initiated without consideration of possible and probable side effects and complications. Palliative irradiation should be given by physicians who are sincerely motivated, adequately trained in radiation therapy, and knowledgeable about other palliative procedures that may also be indicated.