ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To define radiation fibrosis and radiation fibrosis syndrome; review the basics of radiotherapy, the pathophysiology of radiation injury, and the principles of clinical evaluation and management of the common late effects resulting from radiation therapy for cancer treatment. DATA SOURCES: Peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, Internet. CONCLUSION: There is no cure for radiation fibrosis syndrome, but supportive treatment of its clinical sequelae can potentially result in improved function and quality of life. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The sequelae of radiation fibrosis syndrome can often be improved with early detection and supportive care by a multidisciplinary team including cancer rehabilitation physiatrists, oncologists, oncology nurses, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language pathologists.
