Brachial plexus neuropathy following mantle radiotherapy

Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol). 1998;10(6):399-400. doi: 10.1016/s0936-6555(98)80040-x.

Abstract

We report two cases of presumed radiation-induced brachial plexus neuropathy in patients with lymphoma who were treated with standard mantle radiotherapy to a dose of 40 Gy in 20 fractions. Radiation-induced brachial plexopathy has not previously been reported following mantle irradiation at this dose. Both patients received chemotherapy in relapse. We postulate three possible causes: enhanced radiation sensitivity; an interaction between the chemotherapy and the radiotherapy; or an increased dose in axilla owing to a smaller separation at that point.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Axilla / radiation effects
  • Brachial Plexus / radiation effects*
  • Female
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Hodgkin Disease / drug therapy
  • Hodgkin Disease / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Follicular / drug therapy
  • Lymphoma, Follicular / radiotherapy*
  • Muscle Weakness / etiology
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / drug therapy
  • Paresthesia / etiology
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / etiology*
  • Radiation Tolerance
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Sensation Disorders / etiology