Pediatric Radiation Oncology

Thoroughly rewritten and updated, this volume remains the definitive reference on pediatric radiotherapy. The Third Edition presents and evaluates the most up-to-date protocols available, incorporating new data from the most recent clinical trials. Coverage also includes new information on the molecular biology of childhood cancer and new developments in radiation oncology technology, such as stereotactic radiosurgery, three-dimensional conformal treatment planning, charged particle therapy, umbilical cord blood bone marrow transplantation, and the use of biologic modifiers. The book reviews the pathology, clinical presentation, staging, prognosis, and multimodality treatment of common and rare childhood malignancies and examines all treatment options for each disease, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and combination treatments. The authors offer setting-specific advice on optimal irradiation techniques and recommended dosages, as well as immobilization devices and anesthetic agents. Available data on acute toxicities and late effects of cancer treatment, including secondary malignancies, are discussed. Illustrations strategically reinforce key points