Neurological complications of radiation therapies in haematological malignancies

Abstract

Abstract Cranial radiation therapy is an integral treatment component in patients with haematological malignancies, but exposure of nervous system structures to ionizing radiation may result in a range of significant neurological complications. Patients with haematological malignancies, many of whom are long-term survivors with a remote history of antineoplastic therapy during childhood, are particularly susceptible to developing late radiogenic sequelae. Late-delayed neurological radiotoxicities are typically progressive and irreversible, difficult to diagnose and manage, and may permanently compromise neurological function with potentially detrimental effects on quality of life and survivorship. This chapter offers a comprehensive review of the most common and challenging forms of late central and peripheral nervous system radiotoxicities encountered in this patient population, with a focus on the most relevant preventative, diagnostic, and management considerations for practising clinicians.