Pathophysiology of Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome

This article utilized head and neck cancer as a model and highlights the resultant clinical sequelae of radiation fibrosis syndrome and current treatment paradigms.Recent FindingsRadiation therapy is a common modality utilized in the treatment of malignancy. Advances in the field of radiation oncology have curtailed radiation delivered to adjacent organs at risk.SummaryThe pathophysiology of radiation fibrosis syndrome is complex, involving multiple pathways characterized by microvascular injury and inflammatory mediators leading to progressive tissue fibrosis and sclerosis. Clinical manifestations vary depending on the tissues within the radiation field. Amongst head and neck cancer survivors ’ common sequelae include cervical dystonia, dropped head syndrome, trismus, dysphagia, and shoulder dysfunction. Cancer rehabilitation has an essential role in management of radiation fibrosis syndrome to optimize and maintain function.
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research