Dutch researchers found that radiotherapy used in the treatment of brain tumors may lead to decline in patient’s brain function.
Researchers conducted a study of 65 patients, 12 years after they treated, found that individuals who had radiotherapy were more prone to have problems with memory and attention.
Writing in The Lancet Neurology, the researchers said doctors should hold off using radiotherapy where possible. One UK expert said doctors were cautious about using radiotherapy. The patients in the study all had a form of brain tumour called a low-grade glioma – one of the most common types of brain tumour.
Radiotherapy is usually given after initial surgery to eliminate tumors in the brain. However, the debate is still on whether it should be done immediately after surgery or used only if cancer returns.
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