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Palliative radiotherapy for symptomatic adrenal metastases
E M Soffen1, L J Solin, J H Rubenstein
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia.
Cancer
|March 15, 1990
Summary
Palliative radiotherapy effectively manages symptomatic adrenal metastases, offering significant pain relief in 75% of patients with lung cancer. This treatment provides a high probability of palliation, even with a poor overall prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Adrenal metastases often present with debilitating symptoms.
- Lung cancer is a frequent primary site for adrenal metastases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of palliative radiotherapy for symptomatic adrenal metastases.
- To evaluate pain relief and response rates in patients receiving radiotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 16 patients with symptomatic adrenal metastases treated between 1972 and 1988.
- Patients received varying radiotherapy doses and fractionation schedules.
- Response was assessed 2-4 weeks post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Overall response rate was 75% (12 of 16 patients).
- Complete pain relief until death occurred in 38% of patients.
- Median survival after irradiation was 3 months.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy is an effective palliative option for symptomatic adrenal metastases.
- Treatment offers a high probability of pain relief and symptom management.
- Despite poor prognosis, radiotherapy can significantly improve patient quality of life.