Clinical Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncology is a field of medical specialization which involves the use of radiation for the treatment of cancer, and the management of pain and other symptoms. It can be applied to treat varied cancers and may be used alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy, surgery and other treatments. Radiation therapy generally works on cancerous tumors owing to its ability to control cell growth. Ionizing radiation damages the DNA of cancerous tissue thus leading to cellular death. The objective of radiotherapy depends on the location, stage and type of the tumor, and accordingly it may be called adjuvant, curative, neoadjuvant therapeutic or palliative. The field of radiation oncology has undergone significant advancements resulting in higher cure rates, improved quality of life and fewer side effects. New imaging technologies of tumors specifically allow radiation beams to be directed at the cancer, thereby limiting damage to adjacent organs. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of radiation oncology. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects and the recent researches in this field. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.