[Indications of radiation therapy in non metastatic breast cancer]

Abstract

In this review, we will consider 4 principal topics concerning the role of radiotherapy (RT) in the treatment of breast cancer. In early invasive carcinoma, RT on the breast volume followed by a boost to the tumoral bed is recommended after conservative surgery, especially in young patients. After mastectomy, RT is considered as a standard for locally advanced carcinoma because it decreases the rate of local relapse. The majority of ductal carcinoma in situ can be treated by tumorectomy but the margins must be negative. In this situation, however, radiotherapy is always indicated and offers a satisfactory local control. Concerning the sequence, the priority is given to the systemic treatments, but RT should also be able to start as soon as possible.