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Radioterapie in prostaatkarsinoom


G.F.G.O. de Muelenaere
A.G. Sandison
F.C. Coetzee

Abstract

Perusal of the literature reveals the limited value of surgery in primary prostatic carcinoma, and the dangers of oestrogen therapy. Radiotherapy has not been used extensively. We have treated 62 patients with prostatic carcinoma by means of telecobalt therapy. We managed to obtain biopsy specimens in 38 of these patients several months after completion of therapy. In 21 patients the biopsies proved to be negative. Neither histological differentiation nor previous oestrogenic therapy seem to influence the radiosensitivity of prostatic carcinoma. A radical dose is required to cure these cancers. Five-year survivals have been achieved. We strongly advise the use of radiation therapy in patients with restricted, though inoperable, prostatic carcinoma. Purely palliative therapy, e.g. oestrogen or seminectomy should be withheld until the presence of metastases has been proved.

S. Afr. Med. J., 48, 321 (1974).

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eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574