American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 133, Issue 3, 389-395
Copyright © 1979 by American Roentgen Ray Society
Skeletal effects of megavoltage irradiation in survivors of Wilms' tumor
DK Heaston,
HI Libshitz,
and
RC Chan
The skeletal effects of megavoltage irradiation (60Co) in 25 long term survivors of Wilms' tumor are described. In general, the changes seen with megavoltage irradiation are as frequent but not as severe as those previously reported after orthovoltage irradiation. Vertebral body changes generally occur within 5 years after irradiation. Scoliosis and/or kyphosis do not usually develop until after five years postirradiation. Kyphotic curves tend to progress after the adolescent growth spurt while scoliotic curves do not. Other bony and nonosseous changes are detailed.