Radiation therapy in veterinary medicine: a practical review

Abstract

Radiotherapy is a treatment modality based on the use of high-energy rays to kill neoplastic cells, which has become an integral therapeutic tool in veterinary medicine. Radiotherapy may be an effective treatment for tumours that are not easily managed with surgery or with chemotherapy, even for patients with advanced-stage neoplasia. Novel uses of radiotherapy include rescue therapy for specific benign conditions that are refractory to conventional therapy. Acute and late toxicities depend on the prescribed protocol as well as sensitivity and volume of the normal tissue in or near the radiation field. The potential risks associated with the treatment should be fully discussed with owners before starting radiotherapy. New hardware and software technology has drastically advanced the ability to precisely target tumours, improving treatment efficacy and safety.