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Pediatric Palliative Radiotherapy
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  • Carlos Alcaide-Alvarez,
  • Marta Osuna-Marco,
  • Marta Villa,
  • José Miguel Cárdenas-Rebollo,
  • Blanca Herrero,
  • Rosa Alonso-Gutiérrez,
  • Blanca López-Ibor
Carlos Alcaide-Alvarez
HM Hospitales

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Marta Osuna-Marco
HM Hospitales
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Marta Villa
HM Hospitales
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José Miguel Cárdenas-Rebollo
Universidad San Pablo CEU
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Blanca Herrero
Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús
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Rosa Alonso-Gutiérrez
HM Hospitales
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Blanca López-Ibor
Hospital Universitario Madrid Monteprincipe
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Abstract

Introduction: Radiotherapy is an underutilized resource in pediatric palliative care; however, it is useful in relieving various symptoms at the end of life. Patients and methods: A retrospective study of 30 pediatric patients who received radiotherapy for palliative reasons is shown. The objective was to review whether radiotherapy was beneficial. Results: Radiotherapy was useful in relieving symptoms, showing an overall response in 87% of cases and with mild toxicities. The poorest responses were in gliomas with relief in 56% of cases showing toxicity in 89%. The need for anesthesia and irradiation at early ages were predisposing factors for the development of toxicities. Conclusions: The use of palliative radiotherapy is beneficial and should be included in the multidisciplinary management of the child in palliative care.