Radiation Therapy (RT)

Radiation therapy (RT), also known as radiotherapy, is a medical treatment that uses high doses of ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is one of the most common treatments for cancer, with about half of all cancer patients receiving radiation therapy at some point during their treatment.

Key Characteristics of Radiation Therapy (RT)

1. Mechanism of Action: Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells. This damage inhibits their ability to divide and grow, leading to cell death. While both cancerous and healthy cells can be affected, healthy cells typically have a greater capacity to repair themselves.
2. Types of Radiation Therapy:

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): The most common form, where high-energy beams (such as X-rays or protons) are directed from outside the body to target the tumor.
• Brachytherapy: Involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or near the solid organ tumor, allowing for a higher dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Indications: Radiation therapy can be used for various purposes, including:

• Curative Treatment: To eliminate cancer in localized areas.
• Adjuvant Therapy: To prevent cancer recurrence after surgery.
• Palliative Treatment: To relieve symptoms in advanced cancer cases.

Planning and Delivery: The treatment is carefully planned using imaging techniques (like CT scans) to ensure accurate targeting of the tumor while sparing normal tissues. A team of healthcare professionals, including radiation oncologists and medical physicists, collaborates to design an effective treatment plan.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include fatigue, skin irritation at the treatment site, and changes in appetite. The severity and type of side effects depend on the area being treated and the total dose of radiation.

Conclusion

Radiation therapy is a critical component in the management of cancer, offering curative potential for many patients while also providing symptom relief in advanced stages of disease. Its application requires careful planning and execution to maximize effectiveness and minimize harm to healthy tissues.

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References

1. Radiation Therapy – National Cancer Institute
   This resource provides an overview of radiation therapy, including its mechanisms, types, and applications in cancer treatment.
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2009.02.001
2. Radiation Therapy – Mayo Clinic
   This article discusses the types of radiation therapy, how it works, and what patients can expect during treatment.
   DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.05.029
3. Radiation Therapy – MedlinePlus
   This entry outlines the basics of radiation therapy, its uses, and potential side effects associated with treatment.
   DOI: 10.1007/s12053-017-9571-5