Severe and Long-Term Side Effects of Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Cancer: A Case Report

Radiotherapy is a crucial treatment modality for head and neck cancers, demonstrating significant efficacy in tumor control. However, its application can also lead to challenging complications, particularly due to late effects on healthy tissues. These complications arise from cellular damage, scar fibrosis development, and reduced local blood flow caused by radiation-induced vascular changes. Our patient's experience highlights the diverse range of complications, including trismus, hyposalivation, and visual impairments, commonly associated with radiotherapy in this context. Thus, while radiotherapy is indispensable in cancer management, proactive measures are essential to mitigate its adverse effects and optimize patient outcomes. This case aims to illustrate the possible severe late effects of radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer, emphasizing the need for prolonged surveillance and multidisciplinary management strategies to minimize functional sequelae and improve quality of life in long-term survivors.