The diagnosis of cancer in a child is a devastating finding not only to the parents but often to the child. Even though the situation is relatively easy to accept among adults, it is difficult to accept among children because of their general helpless state. The advances that have been made in the management of a child with cancer in the last 20 years have been dramatic in character. These have occurred not only by virtue ofthe contributions from early diagnosis and more precise staging but also from the contribu­ tions made by surgery, radiation therapy, and the more widespread utilization of chemotherapy regimens. This volume by J. Robert Cassady sets forth the position of radiation oncology in the management of the child with cancer. Radiation therapy remains an important and significant part of the treatment of this group of diseases. The book presents the basic knowledge with regards to pediatric oncology and how it relates to radiation therapy. It gives a timely overview on the topic and is essential for all radiation oncologists involved in the management of children with cancer. Hamburg/Philadelphia, June 1994 H. -P. HEILMANN LUTHER W. BRADY Preface This book provides a thorough review of the role that radiation therapy currently plays in the management of most childhood tumors. Extensively augmented with figures and tables where appropriate, it also provides a concise review of current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for major childhood malignancies. Extensive and up-to-date reference lists are an added benefit.