The Role of Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Malignant Lymphomas – Recommendations of the Czech Lymphoma Study Group

Abstract

Background: Indication of radiotherapy in lymphoma treatment is an important strategic decision requiring comprehensive expertise. It also calls for a better definition of the position of radiotherapy in clinical practice. Design: This position paper represents a consensus between hematooncologists and radiation oncologists on the role of RT in treatment of different histological types and stages of malignant lymphomas. The discussion was underway within professional societies of both specializations (Czech Lymphoma Study Group for the hematooncologists and the Society of Radiation Oncology, Biology and Physics for the radiation oncologists). Results: The consensus presented here was reached in early 2012 and draws on evidence-based medicine and clinical practice. Besides defining the role of radiotherapy in lymphoma treatment, this paper also gives specific recommendations on total doses of radiotherapy in lymphoma treatment Conclusion: These recommendations will supplement 7 th edition of "Diagnostic and treatment guidelines in patients with malignant lymphoma" scheduled for publication in 2013.