Palliative radiotherapy for brain metastases

Several studies have confirmed that results of different hypofractionated radiotherapy schedules for palliative purpose are similar to those of conventional higher doses. From 1992 to 1993, 56 consecutive patients with brain metastases were irradiated at our Institution. Three different schedules were used ranging between 18 and 40 Gy. Overall survival, clinical and radiological responses were evaluated with regard to schedules and prognostic characteristics of patient population. There were no significant differences between the treatments, even though patients with shorter estimated life expectancy were more likely to be irradiated with more hypofractionated radiotherapy. Short, cost effective treatments appear to be the best therapeutic option both for institution and patients in most palliative cases.