PROGNOSTIC FACTORS OF RADIATION-INDUCED BRAINNECROSIS AFTER RADIOTHERAPY INNASOPHARYNGEAL CARCINOMA

Henry WC Leung* 1, Shyh-Yau Wang 2

1Radiation Oncology, 2 Radiation , An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan.

INTRODUCTION

Radiation-induced brain necrosis (RIBN) is a late life-threatening complication appeared after treatment in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Although its incidence has decreased with the widespread use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), early detection of RIBN in patients before any serious and irreversible damage occurs is essential and prolongs their survival. However, research reports in this area are limited.

AIM

We aim to examine the incidence of RIBN and explore the major prognostic factors and preventive strategies in order to provide radiation oncologist with an evidence to ensure treatment quality.