[The results of the radiation treatment of cervical cancer using low, sensitizing doses of radiation]

Abstract

Combined radiation treatment for cervical cancer is associated with radiation injury to the intestine, bladder, hemopoietic system and suppression of T-system, nonspecific immunity and thyroid function. Modified gamma-ray teletherapy was suggested which included low-dose (0.1 Gy) sensitizing irradiation of tumor and zones of regional dissemination prior to delivering therapeutic dose (1.9 Gy). The procedure assured lower incidence of radiation-induced reactions and complications, leukopenia and T-lymphocyte function suppression, stimulated nonspecific resistance and thyrotropic function of the pituitary, and provided normal function of the thyroid. As a result, five-year survival rate in patients with stage III cancer increased by 14%.