Current research status on prediction and prevention of temporal lobe injury after intensity-modulated radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The advancement of modern radiotherapy technology and the optimization of comprehensive treatment strategies have led to significant improvements in the efficacy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treatment. With the increase in long-term survivors, the prevention of radiation-related late complications has become increasingly important. Radiation temporal lobe injury is a relatively rare complication after NPC radiation therapy, but it seriously affects patients'quality of life. Currently, treatment options are limited, so prevention remains the primary focus. This review mainly summarizes the changes in the temporal lobe injury during the era of intensity-modulated radiotherapy, dosimetric prediction studies, and comprehensive prevention strategies.