type of Radiation - Cancer Science

What is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality for cancer, utilizing high-energy radiation to destroy or damage cancer cells. This treatment can be administered externally or internally and is often combined with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy to enhance efficacy.

Types of Radiation Therapy

There are two primary types of radiation therapy used in cancer treatment: External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) and Internal Radiation Therapy (also known as brachytherapy).

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

EBRT delivers high-energy rays from outside the body, targeting the tumor. The most common types of EBRT include:

3D Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT): Uses imaging techniques to create a 3D representation of the tumor, allowing for precise targeting.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): Allows for varying intensities of radiation beams, offering greater control and minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Proton Therapy: Utilizes protons instead of X-rays, delivering radiation more precisely and minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): Deliver high doses of radiation in fewer sessions, particularly effective for brain tumors and small, well-defined cancers.

Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive materials directly inside or near the tumor. This method allows for a higher dose of radiation in a more localized area. The primary types of brachytherapy include:

Low-Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy: Involves placing radioactive seeds or pellets inside the tumor for a period of time, allowing continuous, low-dose radiation.
High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy: Delivers a high dose of radiation in a short amount of time, often in multiple sessions.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. While both cancerous and healthy cells can be affected, healthy cells have a better ability to repair themselves. The goal is to maximize damage to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to normal tissues.

What Are the Side Effects?

The side effects of radiation therapy depend on the type and location of treatment. Common side effects include fatigue, skin reactions, and changes in the treated area. Long-term side effects can vary based on the treatment site but may include issues like fibrosis, secondary cancers, or cardiovascular problems.

Who is a Candidate for Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is suitable for many cancer patients, depending on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and treatment goals. It can be used as a primary treatment, adjuvant therapy, or palliative care.

Conclusion

Radiation therapy remains a cornerstone in cancer treatment, offering various techniques to target and destroy cancer cells effectively. Understanding the types of radiation therapy and their applications helps in making informed decisions about cancer treatment options.