[Radiotherapy in bronchial neoplasms]

From the radiological point of view it can be concluded that: 1. Patients suffering from lung tumors usually seek treatment in an advanced stage of the disease. 2. In about one third of the cases, there is a manifestation of extrathoracic metastases already at the commencement of therapy. 3. Significant X-ray therapy depends on a) radiosensibility of the tumor to X-rays, b) the site and extent of the tumor. Although limited in its application, radiotherapy does not only improve the situation of the patient but also leads to a regression or temporary X-ray induced standstill of the growth of the tumor. However, if it is used as the sole treatment, it would scarcely lead to a permanent improvement. As recent advances in the treatment of lung tumors show, X-ray therapy combined with polychemotherapy will not only lengthen the survival time of the patient but will also improve the patient's life in general.