[The role of radiotherapy in locally limited prostate cancer].

Overview

Radiation therapy is a legitimate option of treatment for patients with clinically localized prostate carcinoma. Local control of the primary neoplasm can be improved, since clinical and biopsy evidence of prostate cancer after radiation remains high. Improved megavoltage and interstitial radiation methods are being tested to improve local cure rates, preserve bladder and sexual function, and reduce morbidity. Not all patients respond to radiation therapy, and current investigation may help to distinguish those tumors that will respond versus those better treated by alternative means.