What is Systemic Radiation Therapy?
Systemic radiation therapy, also known as radiopharmaceutical therapy, involves the administration of radioactive substances that travel throughout the body to target and treat cancer cells. Unlike external beam radiation, which focuses radiation from outside the body, systemic radiation therapy delivers radiation internally, often via oral ingestion or intravenous injection.
How Does Systemic Radiation Therapy Work?
Systemic radiation therapy utilizes radioactive isotopes that are either naturally attracted to cancer cells or are attached to molecules that specifically target cancer cells. Once administered, these radioactive substances circulate in the bloodstream and accumulate in the cancerous tissues. The radiation emitted by these substances destroys the cancer cells by damaging their DNA, ultimately leading to their death.
Types of Radioactive Substances Used
Several radioactive substances are used in systemic radiation therapy, including:Applications of Systemic Radiation Therapy
Systemic radiation therapy is particularly effective in treating cancers that are widespread or have metastasized to other parts of the body. Common applications include: Thyroid Cancer: Iodine-131 is highly effective due to the thyroid gland's natural ability to absorb iodine.
Bone Metastases: Radium-223, Strontium-89, and Samarium-153 are used to alleviate pain and control the spread of cancer in bones.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Radiolabeled antibodies can target and kill lymphoma cells.
Benefits of Systemic Radiation Therapy
Systemic radiation therapy offers several advantages: Targeted Treatment: Delivers radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.
Convenience: Often requires fewer hospital visits compared to other treatments.
Pain Relief: Effectively alleviates pain in cases of bone metastases.
Potential Side Effects
While systemic radiation therapy is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include: Patients with cancers that have metastasized to multiple sites
Individuals who cannot undergo surgery or other forms of radiation therapy
Patients looking for palliative treatment to relieve symptoms like pain
A thorough evaluation by an oncologist is essential to determine if systemic radiation therapy is suitable for a particular patient.
Conclusion
Systemic radiation therapy is a potent tool in the arsenal against cancer, particularly for metastatic and hard-to-treat cancers. By delivering targeted radiation to cancer cells throughout the body, it provides an effective treatment option that can also offer symptomatic relief. Like any medical treatment, it comes with potential side effects, and a consultation with a specialist is crucial for determining the most appropriate course of action.
