Cervical Cancer (Cervix Uteri)

Abstract

Summary and ConclusionsThis synthesis of the literature on radiotherapy for cervical cancer (cervix uteri) is based on 59 scientific articles, including 8 randomized studies, 1 prospective study, and 36 retrospective studies. These studies involve 34 024 patients.-Due to favorable anatomy and exceptionally good radiation tolerance of nearby pelvic organs, particularly the uterus, radiotherapy has become the dominant treatment method for cervical cancer.~ Surgery alone is used at the earliest stages where small tumor volumes are involved.-Further pathological findings, where cancer is more extensive than expected preoperatively, or when lymph node metastases are discovered, motivate postoperative radiotherapy even at early stages.-There is general agreement that advanced cervical cancer should be treated by radiotherapy alone. Clinical trials are under way that combine radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and even surgery. ~Two different methods of intracavitary brachytherapy are currently in use, low-dose rate therapy and highdose rate therapy. High-dose rate therapy appears to be economically more favorable. The possibility of higher risks for later complications associated with high-dosc rate therapy has not been fully studied.