Management of radiation adverse effects

Abstract

As outlined in other sections of this textbook, radiation therapy is very effective for treatment of prostate cancer. As with all forms of therapy, complications can occur. In this chapter, we discuss the adverse effects of radiation therapy. We address how these complications can be avoided when possible and treated when they occur. We will focus on three major themes: (1) acute complications of radiation therapy, (2) late complications of radiation therapy, and (3) management of secondary malignancies after therapy. Since the field of radiation therapy is evolving rapidly with new delivery modalities and fractionation schemes, we attempt to provide readers with insight from current literature. However, for the rare but severe long-term side effects of therapy, historical data on management is provided.