The hypogastric lymph nodes are likely included in radiation fields for the treatment of which of the following?

The inclusion of hypogastric lymph nodes in radiation fields is particularly relevant for the treatment of rectal cancers. This is due to the anatomical considerations and the lymphatic drainage patterns associated with rectal tumors. The hypogastric lymph nodes are part of the pelvic lymphatic system and play a crucial role in the metastatic spread of rectal cancer.

When planning radiation therapy for rectal cancer, it’s important to encompass the hypogastric lymph nodes to effectively target potential regional metastases. This approach helps in maximizing the chances of limiting recurrence in the pelvic region, considering that rectal cancers can spread via lymphatics to these nodes.

In contrast, cancers of the base of the tongue, stomach, and esophagus primarily disseminate via different lymphatic pathways, such as the cervical nodes or nodes in the upper abdominal region. Therefore, while these other cancers have their own specific treatment plans and radiation fields, they do not typically involve the hypogastric lymph nodes in the same way as rectal cancer does.