NASOPHARYNGEAL BRACHYTHERAPY

There has been a recent resurgence of interest in implementing brachyt herapy in the management of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, not only as trea tment for recurrent disease, where it has secured a notable role, but also as an elective boost following external beam irradiation in an at tempt to improve local control. Examination of the use of nasopharynge al brachytherapy over nearly the last century may provide guidance for such endeavors and encourage further evolution of these techniques. T hroughout this interval, ingenuity has prevailed in attempts to treat a secluded anatomical site which has been difficult to access, explore , and implant in an acceptable manner.