Carcinogenic Risk in Radiotherapy

Abstract

The information on the appearance of skin, bone, thyroid and internal tumors following radiotherapy has been reviewed. As far as the development of leukemias, the data concerning humans are discussed, particularly in relation to the treatment for thymic hypertrophy, spondilitis and hyperthyreotoxicosis. The authors conclude that an oncogenic and leukomogenic risk connected with the therapeutic use of ionizing radiations exists although it is difficult to evaluate on a quantitative basis. The need of awareness of the risk by physicians and radiologists is stressed.