Thankamma Ajithkumar – författare

Radiotherapy Planning is the new title in the Oxford Specialist Handbooks in Oncology series. It provides a comprehensive guide to modern radiotherapy practice, firmly based on unchanging principles. The author discusses advanced radiotherapy techniques as well as simpler field-based arrangements, so that this handbook can be used globally for clinical practice, including countries with limited resources.The site-specific chapters are structured in two parts. Firstly, current treatment approaches are discussed, with particular attention to the relevant underlying principles to ensure it remains appropriate and useful despite changes in other cancer treatments. The second part of each chapter discusses the most important clinical trials which have informed the current approaches to treatment at the time of publication.In addition, there is a section on imaging features of different tumours, which is useful for clinicians to choose appropriate images for target volume delineation.This handbook will give an accessible introduction to new trainees in the specialty, and it will continue to encourage in all clinical oncologists logical thinking, the ability to ask challenging questions, appropriate analysis of outcomes, and delivery of treatment assessed according to its clinical benefit to patients and its academic rigour.

This easy-to-read, practical guide distils and compiles all the disparate literature on cancer into one succinct volume. It includes the essential, evidence-based clinical guidelines needed for the safe and effective management of patients with cancer, and has a clear layout to allow for quick reference whilst on the ward.All aspects of cancer and its management are covered, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The text begins by outlining the clinical approach to suspected cancer and the principles of multidisciplinary prevention and management. It then progresses through site-specific cancer management, including head and neck, CNS, thoracic, breast, gastrointestinal system, genitourinary system, female genital system, skin, musculoskeletal system, haemopoietic system, and endocrine. Later chapters cover oncological emergencies and acute oncology, and special situations such as cancer in younger and older people, and pregnancy and fertility. The guide also offers information about coping with the lifestyle and social issues that may arise with a diagnosis of cancer, such as insurance, travel and support, and includes a chapter dedicated to palliative care for the cancer patient. A unique appendix of clinical management flowcharts assists fast, appropriate decision-making.

Imaging is a critical component in the delivery of radiotherapy to patients with malignancy, and this book teaches the principles and practice of imaging specific to radiotherapy. Introductory chapters outline the basic principles of the available imaging modalities including x-rays, CT, ultrasound, MRI, nuclear medicine, and PET. Site specific chapters then cover the main tumour sites, reviewing optimal imaging techniques for diagnosis, staging, radiotherapy planning, and follow-up for each site. The important areas of radiation protection, exposure justification, and risks are also covered, exploring issues such as balancing radiation exposure with long-term risks of radiation effects, such as second cancer induction.This second edition has been fully revised and updated to reflect current techniques, and includes two brand new chapters on imaging for radiotherapy treatment verification, and the role of specialist MRI techniques and functional imaging for radiotherapy planning. With insights from experts in each field and over 200 illustrations, this comprehensive and easy-to-read guide will be an invaluable resource for radiation oncologists, clinical oncologists, and radiotherapists, both qualified and in training. ABOUT THE SERIESRadiotherapy remains the major non-surgical treatment modality for the management of malignant disease. It is based on the application of the principles of applied physics, radiobiology, and tumour biology to clinical practice. Each volume in the series takes the reader through the basic principles of the use of ionizing radiation and then develops this by individual sites. This series of practical handbooks is aimed at physicians both training and practising in radiotherapy, as well as medical physics, dosimetrists, radiographers, and senior nurses.

Oxford Case Histories in Oncology contains 30 well-structured cases from clinical practice, giving a comprehensive coverage of the diagnostic and management dilemmas in oncology. The cases cover a wide spectrum of oncology including rare presentations and clinical problems of common cancers. Each case comprises a brief clinical history with relevant clinical examination findings. Questions are based on clinical investigations and aspects of management. Detailed answers are based on the best available evidence from the latest research, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and guidelines from national and international academic bodies. The text is complimented by over 50 illustrations, including radiographic images and radiotherapy treatment plans. The format of this book is thought provoking, and it helps to improve critical thinking and interpretative skills. It is a perfect self-assessment tool for oncology and palliative medicine trainees and consultants, and will be useful for those preparing for exit examinations in oncology. It will also be of interest to non-specialist readers who wish to improve their skills in the diagnosis and management of a broad range of cancers.