When treating large patients, dose distribution may need to be adjusted in what area?

In treating large patients, dose distribution adjustments are particularly critical in the breast region due to the unique anatomical and physiological factors that affect dose delivery. The challenges include the presence of dense breast tissue, which can both absorb and scatter radiation differently compared to other tissues. Additionally, the varying thickness of breast tissue in larger patients can result in discrepancies in radiation dose, necessitating careful planning to ensure the target area receives the correct therapeutic dose while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Breast tissue also varies in composition and density among patients, meaning that standard dosimetric plans may not be adequate. Therefore, adjustments to the planning and delivery of radiation therapy for breast cancer in larger patients help to achieve optimal treatment outcomes while reducing the risk of adverse effects.

In contrast, while dose distribution in the abdomen, pelvis, and head and neck regions is also important, the specific anatomical complexities and variations in breast tissue dynamics make it particularly sensitive to dose adjustments in larger patients, emphasizing the need for tailored planning in this area.