LIMITED FIELD IRRADIATION IN EARLY-STAGE (T1-2N0) NONSMALL CELL LUNG-CANCER

Background and purpose: Radiotherapy can effectively control non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) of limited size. This study is conducted to investigate whether limited field irradiation, without irradiation of regional lymph nodes, can safely be used in these patients. Materials and methods: Between 1988 and 1993, 31 patients with operable T1-2N0 NSCLC received radiotherapy (48 Gy in 12 fractions) to a limited ('pos tage stamp') field. The hilum and mediastinum were not included in the radiation portals. Results: Overall survival was 42% at 3 years. Dise ase-specific survival at 3 years was 76%. One patient developed an iso lated regional failure, one had a combined local and distant failure, one had a combined local, regional and distant failure, while three pa tients failed at distant sites only. Thus, only two patients (6%) recu rred regionally. Conclusions: This study shows that 'postage stamp' ir radiation is an effective alternative to sugery. Radiation of the hila r and mediastinal lymph nodes can be omitted in these pulmonary compro mised patients.