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13 Contraindications to Radiation Therapy
Updated: November 2004
Radiation Therapy may be relatively or absolutely contraindicated in the following circumstances:
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a) |
Significant pre-existing lung disease particularly where the diffusing capacity is reduced |
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b) |
Pre-existing pulmonary tuberculosis |
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c) |
Cardiomyopathy |
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d) |
Connective tissue disorders (S.L.E., scleroderma, etc.) with significant vasculitis. The use of radiation may not be contraindicated with all connective tissue disorders. Referral to a radiation oncologist is advised. |
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e) |
Prior radiation therapy to the same part. |
In such situations partial mastectomy may therefore be inappropriate in that the radiation therapy may be precluded. With current anesthetic techniques a formal modified radical mastectomy with a therapeutic axillary dissection is usually tolerable and the treatment of choice for these patients.
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