The value of radiation therapy in the management of aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphomas

Even though chemotherapy plays a major role in the treatment of aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, the high radiosensitivity of the lymphatic lesions has established radiotherapy as an important component in the management of the disease in localized stages. Nevertheless, the treatment strategies with regard to the stage-adopted indications for radiotherapy, the treatment volume. and the close remain controversial. This article reviews the available data concerning combined-modality treatment in localized stages and treatment of bulky lesions and residual lymphomas after chemotherapy with emphasis on the role of radiation therapy.