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Radiation therapy palliation in malignancy-associated ureteral obstruction
1Department of Radiology, Louisiana State University, School of Medicine, Shreveport.
Radiation Medicine
|November 1, 1989
Summary
External beam irradiation effectively managed malignancy-associated ureteral obstruction (MAUO) in cancer patients. This palliative treatment provided significant symptom relief and alleviated ureteral blockage in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Urology
Background:
- Malignancy-associated ureteral obstruction (MAUO) is a serious complication of advanced cancers.
- Carcinoma of the cervix and prostate gland are common causes of MAUO.
- Palliative treatment aims to improve quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of external beam irradiation for palliative management of MAUO.
- To assess symptomatic relief and objective improvements in patients with MAUO.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 20 patients with MAUO received external beam irradiation between 1981 and 1985.
- The study focused on palliative intent for symptom management.
- Outcomes included symptomatic relief, measurable improvement, and ureteral blockage alleviation.
Main Results:
- Complete symptomatic relief was achieved in 91% of patients.
- Measurable improvement (neoplasm or manifestation) was observed in 23% of evaluable patients.
- Significant alleviation of ureteral blockage was noted in approximately one-third of cases.
Conclusions:
- External beam irradiation is an effective palliative treatment for MAUO.
- The treatment offers substantial symptomatic benefit and can reduce ureteral obstruction.
- The median survival was 7.5 months, indicating a role in managing advanced cancer complications.