[The history of radiotherapy of breast cancer]

Radiotherapy has come to be an important resource in the treatment of breast cancer. After the discovery of X-ray in 1985, postoperative irradiation has been important in selected patients who have undergone mastectomy and locoregional irradiation for postoperative recurrence has proved to be beneficial. Although histology of the breast cancer is adenocarcinoma, it is radiosensitive. The role of radiotherapy has shifted from surgical adjuvant therapy to definitive management in an effort to preserve esthetics and function.