Para-Aortic Lymph Node Irradiation in Cervical Carcinoma

Abstract

Cervical carcinoma metastatic to the para-aortic lymph nodes is generally considered incurable. Three of 6 patients with proved metastases are alive and well three to eleven years following irradiation. Para-aortic regions can be adequately treated with 6,000 rads in six weeks via a 360° rotational 60CO treatment plan. Extensive surgery immediately prior to radiotherapy contributed to complications in 1 patient. Of 5 who lived at least one year following irradiation, more distant metastases developed in 2. Over 85 per cent of patients with more distant metastases die within a year. Para-aortic metastases secondary to endometrial carcinoma may be treated similarly.