Effects of three-dimensional conformal hypofractionated radiotherapy on pulmonary function for elderly non-small cell lung cancer patients

OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effects of 3DCHRT on NSCLC patients.METHODS:A total of 45 patients with NSCLC were treated with 3DCHRT.The median age was 78 gears(range,70-85 gears).Prescribed radiation doses were 40-52 Gy(median dose was 48 Gy).Pulmonary function tests(PFTs) were performed in all patients before radiotherapy and at 1-,3-,6-months after radiotherapy(RT) respectively.Tests parameters included forced vital capacity(FVC),forced expiratory volume in one second(FEV1),and diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide(DLCO).PFTS were expressed as a percentage of normal values.RESULTS: The overall response rate was 95.6%(43/45).The overall 1-year survival rate was 84.4%(38/45).At 1 month after RT,a significant increase was observed for the FEV1%(P0.05),but no obviously change was found in the DLCO%(P0.05).A significant decrease in pulmonary function was observed at 3 months after RT(P0.05).The pulmonary function decreased further at 6 months after RT(P0.01).CONCLUSION:3DCHRT is effective for elderly non-small cell lung cancer patients.At the same time,it is harmful for pulmonary function.