[Radiation pericarditis following treatment of lymphogranulomatosis]

Cases of radiation pericarditis among 707 patients with Hodgkin's disease after irradiation of the mediastinum were analysed. In 100 patients irradiation was combined with polychemotherapy in cycles, SORR scheme. Radiation exudative pericarditis was noted in 2.6% of patients. Later on an adhesive process was diagnosed in some of patients. Radiation pericarditis was accompanied either by feebly marked signs or no signs at all. In cases of a lingering course (over 24 mos.) of the disease surgical intervention is indicated. The frequency of radiation complications caused by pericarditis depends on the volume of irradiation and, to a lesser degree, on the value of a summary focal dose delivered to the heart within the range of 31-45 Gy. For prevention the heart should be shielded with lead blocks.