Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis

Abstract

To further clarify the role of radiotherapy (XRT) for the treatment of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) we retrospectively analysed 13 patients treated with megavoltage irradiation. Localisation of LCH, radiation doses and techniques, and treatment results were determined. XRT alone was used in 9 patients with localised LCH. In 8 patients a complete remission was induced with doses between 10 - 20 Gy. Two relapses occurred but were controlled after a second radiation course. One patient developed systemic LCH. Four patients with systemic LCH were irradiated to treat local problems. Complete remissions were achieved in two patients, frequent relapses occurred in the other two patients. Five patients had evidence of cerebral LCH causing diabetes insipidus. In two patients a cerebral LCH-tumour was detectable. Tumour growth was abrogated in these cases. XRT could not revert diabetes insipidus but no progression of tumour growth and the associated hormonal dysfunction occurred.