External beam radiotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer represents the most frequently diagnosed malignant tumor in Germany. Primary radiotherapy is one of the two recommended curative treatment options for this disease. There are two types of radiotherapy: external beam radiotherapy and interstitial brachytherapy. Technical developments during the last two decades have made it possible to achieve improved chances of being cured of tumors and improved relief from disease-related symptoms for patients at all tumor stages. Moreover, treatment can be administered with a reduced rate of side effects. Results of classical 3D conformal radiotherapy as well as modern radiation therapy techniques are comprehensively presented including the concept of hypofractionation with results from available randomized trials. After comprehensive assessment of all relevant risk factors, recommendations for the type of treatment must be based on a multidisciplinary approach.