CHANGES IN THE LUNG FOLLOWING IRRADIATION THERAPY FOR CARCINOMA OF THE BREAST
Results based on the radiotherapy of 145 patients are described. Irradiation was directed toward lymph nodes of the internal mammary chain and supraclavicular and axillary areas, the total dose of 3500 r being administered over a 3-week period. Roentgenographic evidenee of post irradiation pulmonary changes was detected in 58 subjects. In most cases the changes were minimal and were seen as a diffuse pleuritis or pneumonitis several weeks after therapy. Less frequently, fibrosis was detected, with linear strand-like densities extending outward and upward from hilus to apex of the lung. Shrinkage of the upper lobe was often observed many months later. In 5 of the 58 affected cases, the fibrotic changes resolved completely after 0.5 to 1.5 yr. Subjective respiratory complaints (dry cough, dyspnea, chest pain) attributable to radiotherapy were noted in 6 patients, but these symptoms did not persist and responded to conservative symptomatic treatment. (H.H.D.)
- Research Organization:
- Maria Hospital, Helsinki
- NSA Number:
- NSA-16-032755
- OSTI ID:
- 4756773
- Journal Information:
- Ann. Med. Internae Fenniae, Journal Name: Ann. Med. Internae Fenniae Vol. Vol: 50
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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