The temporary acute reactions during radiotherapy are a burden for the pati
ent.
These reactions are due to a depletion of stem cells and depend on the sing
le dose, the total dose and the irradiated volume. The WHO describes the ac
ute changes in a graded scale from 0 to IV.
A knowledge of the course of these events helps the otolaryngologist to inf
orm patients competently, calm their fears and give support during treatmen
t. Efficacious measures to alleviate symptoms are presented.