Some pathoanatomical points on radiotherapy for lung cancer

For the improvement of radiotherapy for lung cancer the authors have pointed out some pathoanatomical points to be considered before the treatment of choice. Besides the well-known side effects like radiation pneumonitis and pleuritis, cavity formation within the lung with or without infection and hemorrhage, opportunistic infection of the lung or the whole body, DIC and stress ulcer in the aged are demonstrated on 6 cases. The problem of sporadic remaining of cancer cells in the periphery of the radiation field, which may be due to respiratory movement, is also picked up. (author)