Onkológia 4/2011

Indications and options for radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of head and neck cancer

The main objective in the treatment of head and neck cancer is to provide local control of the disease which directly influences the overall survival and the quality of life of patients. Radiotherapy alone or in combination with surgery or systemic therapy is an integral part of the treatment of all stages of head and neck tumors. This article represents a review of current standards of treatment of tumors of head and neck with radiotherapy and with combination of radiotherapy and systemic treatment (chemotherapy, targeted therapy).

Keywords: head and neck cancer, radiotherapy, altered fractionation, larynx preservation, systemic therapy.