| Abstract: | Objective: To assess the risk of neoplastic development among persons exposed to scalp irradiation. Study Design: Historical cohort study initially; prospective follow-up subsequently. Method: Two control groups—population and siblings—matched for age, sex, ethnic origin, and year of immigration. Follow-up from time of irradiation (1950s) until the end of 1991. Linkage with nationwide cancer registry. Results: A 4.5–fold incidence of cancer (P < .01) and a 2.6–fold increase of benign tumors were noted. The mean length of latency period until tumor development was 11 years for malignant tumors and 21.5 years for benign. A clear dose response effect for both cancer and benign tumors was demonstrated. Conclusions: The study confirms the role of radiation in salivary gland carcinogenesis. It indicates a need for better awareness, a comprehensive examination, and long-term follow-up of patients who have been subjected to head and neck radiation. |
