The increasing importance of radiation therapy in the improved prognosis of children with Wilms' tumor

Abstract

Treatment results for 32 children with Wilms' tumor seen at the JCRT, CHMC and SFCI from January 1, 1971, through December 31, 1975, are presented. Indications for and technical details of irridation are discussed. The uniform efficacy of irradiation in preventing local relapse in all patients presenting with unilateral disease despite tumor spill in nine is stressed. Actuarial survival of nearly 80% of all patients seen and followed for more than 2 years has been achieved. Eight of 14 patients with documented pulmonary relapse have been controlled with irradiation, chemotherapy and surgery. The importance of an aggressive multidisciplinary approach to this tumor is stressed.