Medical factors influencing decision making regarding radiation therapy for breast cancer

• Main Authors: Dilaveri CA, Sandhu NP, Neal L, Neben-Wittich MA, Hieken TJ, Mac Bride MB, Wahner-Roedler DL, Ghosh K
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dove Medical Press 2014-11-01
• Series: International Journal of Women's Health
• Online Access: http://www.dovepress.com/medical-factors-influencing-decision-making-regarding-radiation-therap-peer-reviewed-article-IJWH

Christina A Dilaveri,1 Nicole P Sandhu,1 Lonzetta Neal,1 Michelle A Neben-Wittich,1,2 Tina J Hieken,3 Maire Brid Mac Bride,1 Dietlind L Wahner-Roedler,1 Karthik Ghosh1 1Division of General Internal Medicine, 2Department of Radiation Oncology, 3Division of Subspecialty General Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA Abstract: Radiation therapy is an important and effective adjuvant therapy for breast cancer. Numerous health conditions may affect medical decisions regarding tolerance of breast radiation therapy. These factors must be considered during the decision-making process after breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy for breast cancer. Here, we review currently available evidence focusing on medical conditions that may affect the patient–provider decision-making process regarding the use of radiation therapy. Keywords: cardiac devices, connective tissue disease, prior radiation