Advances in Radiation Therapy for Primary and Metastatic Adult Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Curr Oncol Rep. 2016 Jun;18(6):36. doi: 10.1007/s11912-016-0523-z.

Abstract

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) consist of a heterogeneous group of rare malignancies arising from mesenchymal origin. While surgical resection is the primary treatment for STS, the use of radiotherapy (RT) as an adjunctive modality has been shown to improve oncologic outcomes. Technologic improvements, such as image guidance and intensity-modulated radiotherapy that significantly improve both the precision and delivery of RT, have led to the reduction of long-term RT toxicities without compromising outcomes. This review addresses these technologic advancements as well as discussing the most current updates regarding the use of brachytherapy, charged particles, and novel agents with RT.

Keywords: IGRT; IMRT; Neoadjuvant radiotherapy; Radiation therapy; SBRT; Sarcoma; Targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brachytherapy*
  • Humans
  • Sarcoma / radiotherapy*
  • Sarcoma / secondary*