Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - Radiation Treatments

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy

Radiation can have significant side effects when used as part of intensive treatments, such as hyperfractionated radiotherapy or radiotherapy in combination with chemotherapy. Among the most serious problems is severe inflammation in the esophagus (esophagitis) or the lungs (pneumonitis). Infection is also a danger.

The use of targeted approaches, such as conformal radiotherapy may help reduce these complications. Investigators are also studying drugs, notably amifostine, that appear to help reduce throat and lung inflammation caused by radiation without reducing its cancer-fighting effects.

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