Radiation-induced XXXX : the role of radioprotectants.

@entity5 @entity8503 @entity1 @entity137
Ionizing radiation has been used to treat many @entity5 since the turn of the century. Modern radiotherapeutic techniques have led to increased cure rates and improved local regional control, but the potentially severe and debilitating adverse effects of radiation therapy have not been fully eliminated. Managing radiation-induced @entity137 often focuses on treating the symptoms as they manifest. However, preventing these complications is clearly more desirable. Radiation-induced @entity137 may be ameliorated in several ways. Dose fractionation was one of the earliest methods recognized to decrease radiation-induced @entity137 . Another early method was the use of physical shielding to reduce the area of exposure. Pharmacologic approaches to improving the therapeutic index of radiotherapy fall under two categories: radiosensitizers or radioprotectants. Radiosensitizers are compounds that enhance the sensitivity of @entity5 to the effects of radiation, but not normal tissue. Radioprotectants such as @entity8503 function by reducing the effects of radiation on normal cells while maintaining @entity5 sensitivity. Clinical trials have demonstrated that @entity8503 can reduce both acute and late radiation-induced @entity137 . The development of @entity8503 has thus resulted in greater @entity5 control without sacrificing @entity1 well-being. Further investigations are necessary to ensure that @entity1 receive the optimum therapeutic benefit.
