[Local control of the primary tumor. Necessary step in control of cancer]

There is clear evidence for a cancer cure. The hypothesis behind a treatment with curative intent is the ability to eradicate all the cancer cells of a tumour. Out of three cancer deaths, one is related to local failure. In some cancers like breast carcinoma, death is mainly in relation with the development of distant metastases. Even in such a tumour, an improvement in local control can translate as better survival. Radiation therapy, often in association with surgery, is playing a major role in tumour local control. Such a local control is mandatory if cure is at aim. One of the main goals of clinical research is to find a good compromise between local control of the disease and a non mutilating surgical approach.