[Combination of chemotherapy and local radiation therapy for metastases to the lung or liver: indication and results (author's transl)].

42 patients with metastases to the lung and 7 patients with metastases to the liver received a combined treatment with polychemotherapy and local gamma-irradiation simultaneously. Radiation doses to the lung were mostly 15 Gy in 12 days up to 18 Gy in 2 1/2 weeks (657 to 731 ret). Right and left lung were never treated at the same time. Thus, treatment results could be compared and severe side effects were avoided. Regression of metastases occurred more often after a combined treatment, and remission lasted longer. Pneumonitis was seen in 1/3 of all cases but could be managed satisfactorily by antiphlogistics. Metastases to the liver, too, responded well to a combined treatment.