Normal tissue effects of the radiotherapy of head and neck cancer

The radiation responses of several normal tissues in the treatment of tumors of the head and neck have been discussed. The severity of damage to normal tissues can vary considerably according to the quantity and quality of the radiation, amounts of tissue irradiated, temporal aspects of treatment as well as numerous biological factors. The radiation effects of several normal tissues including bone, larynx, spinal cord, ear and eye, have not been addressed in this report, but nevertheless are important in the treatment of a variety of head and neck tumors. Attention to potential normal tissue complications in the radiotherapy of head and neck cancer must be considered an integral part of the therapy. Proper management of complications may improve response to therapy and improve the quality of life