Radiation Therapy of Benign Tumors, Hyperplasias, and Dermatoses

Abstract

While modern indications for radiotherapy of skin cancers are well established, the use of ionizing radiation for benign skin diseases has decreased considerably as new and better systemic and local treatments have become available. In some diseases, ionizing radiation is a useful therapeutic alternative (e.g., for keloids or lymphocytoma cutis); in certain dermatoses (e.g., eczema) radiotherapy should be applied only after other therapeutic methods have failed or when active treatment seems essential for the well-being of the patient. Improved x-ray technology, accurate dosimetry, and strict adherence to safety rules have reduced cutaneous and noncutaneous side effects to a minimum.^1–4 The use of x rays for benign diseases in all medical specialties has recently been evaluated by the National Academy of Sciences. These recommendations are now endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (see Table 10.11). The following discussion of radiation techniques for benign skin conditions is based on the assumption that the abovementioned criteria have been fulfilled, routine ways of therapy for these conditions have been found ineffective, contraindications to radiation therapy do not exist, the x-ray unit is calibrated regularly, and proper radiation protection is used.