[Radiotherapy indications for non-malignant diseases in 2014]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiotherapy
• Non-malignant Diseases

Background:

• The 2005 review of radiotherapy indications for benign conditions serves as a baseline.
• Significant shifts in established indications have been minimal since the previous review.
• Certain previously explored applications, like macular degeneration, are no longer current practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of current radiotherapy indications for non-malignant diseases.
• To highlight the enduring classical indications for radiation therapy in benign conditions.
• To emphasize the importance of consistent treatment criteria for both benign and malignant diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of evidence regarding radiotherapy for non-malignant conditions.
• Exclusion of indications treated solely by radiosurgery.
• Analysis of changes and continuities in treatment guidelines since 2005.

Main Results:

• Classical indications for radiotherapy in non-malignant diseases, such as prevention of heterotopic bone formation and keloids, remain valid.
• Indications like macular degeneration treatment and prevention of coronary restenosis are now considered historical.
• No major changes in the core indications have occurred since the 2005 review.

Conclusions:

• Radiotherapy for non-malignant diseases continues to rely on established indications like heterotopic ossification and keloid prevention.
• The therapeutic landscape for benign conditions has seen limited evolution, with some past applications becoming obsolete.
• Crucially, radiation treatment for benign conditions must adhere to the same stringent ethical and quality standards as for malignant diseases, including comprehensive patient information on risks, benefits, and treatment quality.