Radiotherapy of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis

Czech version

Authors: P. Čoupek; P. Šlampa; I. Čoupková; J. Gombošová
Authors‘ workplace: Klinika radiační onkologie Lékařské fakulty MU a Masarykova onkologického ústavu Brno, přednosta prof. MUDr. Pavel Šlampa, CSc.
Published in: Vnitř Lék 2010; 56(Supplementum 2): 152-156
Category: Langerhans cell histiocytosis and some other Hematology rare diseases

Overview

Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis is a rare disease, the overall incidence is only 1–3 cases per 1,000,000. The diagnostic and treatment guidelines are not exactly determined. Surgery and radiotherapy are the preferred treatment of localized form. Multifocal form or systemic disease is usually treated by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The experience in the radiotherapy of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis is limited to the largest radiation oncology centers due to the rarity of this disease. Radiosensitivity is high, therefore only low doses of radiation are sufficient. The tolerance of radiotherapy is good, acute postirradiation reactions are small and acceptable. Modern radiotherapy techniques enable us to use radiotherapy for any location. Radiotherapy is usually indicated for solitary or multiple osteolytic bone lesions, but also for soft tissue and internal organ lesions. According to the localization of the lesion we choose the radiation source, energy and technique to apply the maximum dose to the tumor, with minimal toxicity to healthy tissues. The goal of this paper is to review indications and possibilities of radiotherapy of this rare disease and to show the comprehensive approach to the treatment of Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis.

Key words:
radiotherapy – Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis – radiosensitivity

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