Objectives:

1. To examine factors influencing prognosis in patients receiving palliative radiation therapy, including validating the TEACHH model in a patient population receiving palliative radiation therapy at the DFCI and BWH, including the DFCI at South Shore Hospital, BWH at Milford Regional Medical Center and BWH/Sturdy Memorial radiation center, and examining other potential risk factors including laboratory values, burden of metastatic disease, changes in performance status, inpatient or outpatient status, specific symptoms, and treatment on a dedicated palliative care service and to determine their prognostic significance for survival.

2. To examine tumor/symptom control outcomes and toxicities after palliative radiation therapy over a patient’s remaining lifespan.

Methodology:

This is a retrospective record review which contains baseline disease information, radiographic information, clinical photographs, and follow-up information (including survival and resolution of symptoms). The associations between various baseline factors and outcomes, including life expectancy, tumor control, symptomatic improvement, will then be assessed.