Predicting normal tissue toxicity in radiotherapy : can we improve clinical decision-making?

Variation exists between individuals in the severity of their normal tissue response to radiotherapy. This can broadly be related to radiation dosimetric variables, adjuvant cancer treatments and factors inherent to the patient, including genetics. In this PhD research, factors were identified that influence the development of acute toxicity in breast and prostate cancer patients. In addition, integrated prediction models, including genetics, were developed that are able to predict which cancer patients are most likely to develop late urinary toxicity in prostate cancer patients.