Applications of diagnostic radiology to radiation oncology

Despite advances in oncology, the local control of malignancies remains a formidable challenge. For the radiation oncologist, this challenge is approached by greater precision in the definition of the tumor and normal tissue with the intent of encompassing the former and excluding the latter from the high dose volume of treatment. Advances in diagnostic imaging have been incorporated into radiation therapy planning to achieve this goal. Recent developments in three dimensional treatment planning of CNS and pelvic malignancies illustrate the extent to which radiation oncology has come to rely on diagnostic imaging and the promise it offers for improvement in clinical care.