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.