06.04.2017
Oncological diseases are common in our time; rejuvenation of pathology poses a priority treatment task for scientists.
Radiation therapy It occupies a very important place in oncology and, despite numerous side effects, can bring great benefits to the patient and give a chance for success in defeating cancer.
Concept of radiation therapy
Radiation therapy for malignant tumors is a method of treatment using ionizing radiation. The point of this technique is the destructive effect of radioactive waves on the tumor, and accurate calculations of the dose, exposure distance and duration allow for minimal radiation damage to surrounding organs and tissues.
The variety of forms of this method is so great that a separate medical specialty has been formed - radiation therapist, radiologist, who deals exclusively with this area of treatment. Any oncology clinic or other specialized in cancer diseases medical institution must have such a specialist.
Depending on the type of waves that are used, the types of radiation used in medical practice are distinguished:
- X-ray;
- α, β, γ;
- neutron;
- proton;
- π-meson.
Each of them has its own characteristics, its pros and cons, and is used for treatment in various cases.
Thus, X-rays can be used for the treatment of deep-lying tumors, α and β particles work well in contact irradiation methods, γ rays have significant energy and a long range in tissues, which gives an advantage when using this type of particles as a radiosurgical method (gamma knife).
The neutron flux is capable of imparting radioactive properties to any tissue (induced radioactivity), which can have an effect as a palliative treatment for common metastatic tumors.
Proton and π-meson radiation are among the most modern achievements radiosurgery, their help can be used in neurosurgery and ophthalmology, due to the minimal damaging effect on the tissue surrounding the tumor.
Radiation for oncology makes sense at various stages of the disease, depending on the course of the disease and the patient’s condition, radiation treatment cancer treatment is carried out in various combinations with chemotherapy and surgical treatment, which are determined in advance by a whole council of doctors individually for each patient.
Indications and contraindications
On this moment More than 50% of all cancer patients undergo radiation therapy. This technique successfully used in the treatment of cancer of the cervix, brain, lungs, pancreas, stomach, prostate, skin, mammary glands and other organs.
It can be indicated both as an initial stage of therapy (before surgery, to reduce the tumor in volume), and after surgery to reduce the risk of metastasis and remove remnants of the affected tissue; chemoradiotherapy is more often used in cases of unresectable tumor.
Contraindications for this type of treatment may include:
- blood changes in the form of lympho-, thrombocyto-, leukopenia or anemia;
- cachexia, an extremely serious condition of the patient;
- acute inflammatory processes accompanied by severe fever;
- severe cardiovascular, renal or respiratory failure;
- severe diseases of the central nervous system;
- skin damage in the area of intended irradiation;
A history of tuberculosis and the presence of a focus of chronic infection in the tumor area can be considered a relative contraindication.
The final decision on the need to use radiation in a particular case can be made only on the basis of an assessment and comparison of all probable outcomes when using other methods, as well as the natural course of the oncological process.
The balance of harm and benefit must always be assessed for each patient individually; no treatment should aggravate his condition.
Method of radiation treatment
Radiation therapy in oncology justifies some of its consequences by its high level of effectiveness. Such a destructive local effect on the tumor is possible only with its use and cannot be replaced by chemotherapy.
Radiotherapy is carried out using special devices or radioactive substances in various forms.
Depending on the method of directing the rays to the body, distant, contact and radionuclide radiotherapy are distinguished. Remote therapy involves positioning the patient at some distance from the radiation source, while the device can either be static or move in relation to the patient.
With the contact method, radiopharmaceuticals are applied using ointments, radiation sources are introduced into cavities and tissues, and applied to the skin, and radionulide therapy involves the administration of a radiopharmaceutical intravenously. With this method of treatment, the patient must be isolated from other people for some time, since he himself becomes a source of radiation.
To undergo a course of radiation therapy, you must go through several stages: establishing accurate diagnosis and localization of the process, then at the consultation the role of radiotherapy in a particular case will be discussed and the radiologist will calculate the required dose and the number of sessions, and in the end it will be possible to begin the irradiation itself.
The classic course lasts from 6 to 8 weeks, during which the patient undergoes about 30-40 sessions. In some cases, hospitalization in a hospital is necessary for the duration of therapy, but most often it is well tolerated and is possible as a day hospital.
Side effects
The degree of severity and their localization depend on the stage of the disease and the location of the pathological focus. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can be complicated by side effects such as dizziness, a feeling of heaviness in the head, hair loss and hearing loss.
Irradiation of parts of the gastrointestinal tract provokes vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, perversion of smell, and weight loss. The skin may develop dermatitis, redness, pain, itching and peeling of the irradiated areas - a fairly common effect.
Almost everything, regardless of tumor volume and radiation exposure, they note weakness of varying intensity during the course of this type of treatment, this symptom can be associated both with intoxication due to the disintegration of the tumor, and with a change in the psycho-emotional state against the background of the constant need to attend radiotherapy sessions and undergo various studies and procedures.
A feeling of fear of illness, death, or the treatment process can provoke psychosomatic disorders, which can often only be overcome with the support of relatives, friends or psychotherapists.
Recovery of the body after radiation therapy
In order to restore the body's energy and functional reserves, as well as reduce intoxication, throughout the course of radiotherapy it is necessary to adhere to certain recommendations that will not only increase the chances of recovery, but also significantly reduce the risk of side effects.
Rest is very important to replenish your strength. Such rest should not consist of endless lying on the sofa in front of the TV, but involves adjusting the sleep-wake schedule, creating a complete daily routine with the obligatory inclusion of favorite activities in this plan, as a reward positive emotions and a diversionary maneuver.
A large period of time should be determined by hygiene procedures which should be carried out more often than usual to reduce the risk infectious complications against the background of immunosuppression. Moderate physical activity also help the patient recover and has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems.
In case if general state does not allow gymnastics, jogging or other physical exercises, walks become a mandatory component of the daily routine.
Nutrition can also significantly influence the course of the disease and the tolerability of radiotherapy. To eliminate or reduce discomfort from the gastrointestinal tract, a balanced diet is recommended, which should exclude alcohol, fatty foods and foods fried in large quantities of oil, and foods with strong odors.
You should not strictly adhere to diets; you can always find a place for dishes that the patient likes; the main condition is to eat at least something. Foods high in fiber, vitamins and microelements will have a beneficial effect on the body. The basic rule should be the principle of fractional meals, in small portions, but often.
Restoration of water-electrolyte balance, removal of toxic decay substances and metabolites medicines can only occur with sufficient water intake. In addition to liquid food, tea and juices, you should, if possible, drink more than one and a half liters of clean water per day.
The glass of water at bedside should be filled. If you feel nauseous, you should not try to drink a lot of liquid at once, this can provoke vomiting; it is better to gradually, over several hours, take one or several sips of water.
Giving up bad habits should not frighten the patient; this is no less necessary than the entire course of therapy, since smoking and drinking alcohol have a negative effect on the vascular and nervous systems and contributes to increased intoxication, which will already weaken health.
If you experience any unpleasant sensations during or after irradiation, you should inform your attending physician, who will, together with the radiologist, adjust the treatment regimen.
If necessary, supplement drug treatment symptomatic means, such as antiemetics, painkillers, ointments, immunostimulants and others.
Oncology and radiation therapy are inseparable. This type of treatment allows you to achieve the desired result in the treatment of malignant tumors, and compliance with doctors’ orders and awareness of possible consequences, helps to minimize its probable Negative consequences and speed up recovery.
Thank you
The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy ( radiotherapy)
is a set of procedures associated with exposure to various types of radiation ( radiation) on the tissue of the human body for the purpose of treatment various diseases. Today, radiation therapy is used primarily to treat tumors ( malignant neoplasms). The mechanism of action of this method is the effect of ionizing radiation ( used during radiotherapy) on living cells and tissues, which causes certain changes in them. To better understand the essence of radiation therapy, you need to know the basics of tumor growth and development. IN normal conditions every cell in the human body can divide ( multiply) only a certain number of times, after which the functioning of its internal structures is disrupted and it dies. The mechanism of tumor development is that one of the cells of any tissue escapes the control of this regulatory mechanism and becomes “immortal”. It begins to divide an infinite number of times, as a result of which a whole cluster of tumor cells is formed. Over time, new blood vessels are formed in the growing tumor, as a result of which it increasingly increases in size, squeezing surrounding organs or growing into them, thereby disrupting their functions.
As a result of many studies, it has been established that ionizing radiation has the ability to destroy living cells. The mechanism of its action is to damage the cell nucleus, in which the genetic apparatus of the cell is located ( that is, DNA is deoxyribonucleic acid). It is DNA that determines all the functions of the cell and controls all the processes occurring in it. Ionizing radiation destroys DNA strands, making further cell division impossible. In addition, when exposed to radiation, the internal environment of the cell is also destroyed, which also disrupts its functions and slows down the process of cell division. It is this effect that is used to treat malignant neoplasms - disruption of cell division processes leads to a slowdown in tumor growth and a reduction in its size, and in some cases even to a complete cure of the patient.
It is worth noting that damaged DNA can be repaired. However, the rate of its recovery in tumor cells is significantly lower than in healthy cells of normal tissues. This allows the tumor to be destroyed, while at the same time having only a minor effect on other tissues and organs of the body.
What is 1 gray equal to in radiation therapy?
When the human body is exposed to ionizing radiation, part of the radiation is absorbed by the cells of various tissues, which causes the development of the phenomena described above ( destruction of the intracellular environment and DNA). The severity directly depends on the amount of energy absorbed by the tissue. therapeutic effect. The fact is that different tumors react differently to radiotherapy, as a result of which different doses of radiation are required to destroy them. Moreover, the more radiation the body is exposed to, the greater the likelihood of damage to healthy tissues and the development of side effects. That is why it is extremely important to accurately dose the amount of radiation used to treat certain tumors.To quantify the level of absorbed radiation, the unit of measurement used is Gray. 1 Gray is a dose of radiation at which 1 kilogram of irradiated tissue receives an energy of 1 Joule ( Joule is a unit of energy measurement).
Indications for radiation therapy
Today, various types of radiotherapy are widely used in various areas medicine.
- For the treatment of malignant tumors. The mechanism of action of the method has been described previously.
- In cosmetology. The radiotherapy technique is used to treat keloid scars - massive growths of connective tissue that form after plastic surgery, as well as after injuries, purulent skin infections and so on. Hair removal is also performed using irradiation ( depilation) on various parts of the body.
- For the treatment of heel spurs. This disease is characterized by pathological growth of bone tissue in the heel area. The patient experiences severe pain. Radiotherapy helps to slow down the process of bone tissue growth and subsidence of inflammatory phenomena, which, in combination with other treatment methods, helps get rid of heel spurs.
Why is radiation therapy prescribed before surgery, during surgery ( intraoperatively) and after surgery?
Radiation therapy can be used as an independent treatment strategy in cases where a malignant tumor cannot be completely removed. At the same time, radiotherapy can be administered simultaneously with surgical removal of the tumor, which will significantly increase the patient's chances of survival.Radiation therapy may be prescribed:
- Before the operation. This type of radiotherapy is prescribed in cases where the location or size of the tumor does not allow its removal surgically (for example, a tumor is located near a vital important organs or large blood vessels, as a result of which its removal is associated with a high risk of death of the patient on the operating table). In such cases, the patient is first prescribed a course of radiation therapy, during which the tumor is exposed to certain doses of radiation. Some of the tumor cells die, and the tumor itself stops growing or even decreases in size, making it possible to surgically remove it.
- During the operation ( intraoperatively). Intraoperative radiotherapy is prescribed in cases where, after surgical removal of the tumor, the doctor cannot 100% exclude the presence of metastases ( that is, when the risk of tumor cells spreading into neighboring tissues remains). IN in this case the location of the tumor and nearby tissues are subjected to a single irradiation, which makes it possible to destroy tumor cells, if any remain after removal of the main tumor. This technique can significantly reduce the risk of relapse ( re-development of the disease).
- After operation. Postoperative radiotherapy is prescribed in cases where, after tumor removal, there remains a high risk of metastasis, that is, the spread of tumor cells to nearby tissues. Also, this tactic can be used when the tumor grows in neighboring organs, from where it cannot be removed. In this case, after removing the main tumor mass, the remnants of the tumor tissue are irradiated with radiation, which makes it possible to destroy the tumor cells, thereby reducing the likelihood of further spread of the pathological process.
Is radiation therapy necessary for a benign tumor?
Radiotherapy can be used for both malignant and benign tumors, but in the latter case it is used much less frequently. The difference between these types of tumors is that a malignant tumor is characterized by rapid, aggressive growth, during which it can grow into neighboring organs and destroy them, as well as metastasize. During the process of metastasis, tumor cells are separated from the main tumor and, with the flow of blood or lymph, spread throughout the body, settling in various fabrics and organs and starting to grow in them.As for benign tumors, they are characterized by slow growth, and they never metastasize or grow into neighboring tissues and organs. At the same time, benign tumors can reach significant sizes, as a result of which they can compress surrounding tissues, nerves or blood vessels, which is accompanied by the development of complications. The development of benign tumors in the brain area is especially dangerous, since during the growth process they can compress the vital centers of the brain, and due to their deep location they cannot be removed surgically. In this case, radiotherapy is used, which allows you to destroy tumor cells, while at the same time leaving healthy tissue intact.
Radiotherapy can also be used to treat benign tumors of other locations, but in most cases these tumors can be removed surgically, as a result of which radiation remains a backup ( spare) method.
How is radiation therapy different from chemotherapy?
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are two completely different methods used to treat malignant tumors. The essence of radiotherapy is the effect of radiation on a tumor, which is accompanied by the death of tumor cells. At the same time, during chemotherapy into the human body ( into the bloodstream) certain drugs are administered ( medicines), which reach the tumor tissue through the bloodstream and disrupt the processes of tumor cell division, thereby slowing down the process of tumor growth or leading to its death. It is worth noting that for the treatment of some tumors, both radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be prescribed simultaneously, which speeds up the process of destruction of tumor cells and increases the patient’s chances of recovery.What is the difference between diagnostic radiation and radiation therapy?
Radiation diagnostics is a complex of studies that allows you to visually study the features of the structure and functioning of internal organs and tissues.TO radiology diagnostics relate:
- conventional tomography;
- research related to the introduction of radioactive substances into the human body, and so on.
Types and methods of radiation therapy in oncology
To date, many methods of irradiating the body have been developed. However, they differ both in the technique of execution and in the type of radiation affecting the tissue. Depending on the type of radiation exposed, the following are distinguished:
- proton beam therapy;
- ion beam therapy;
- electron beam therapy;
- gamma therapy;
- X-ray therapy.
Proton beam therapy
The essence of this technique is the impact of protons ( a type of elementary particle) on tumor tissue. Protons penetrate the nucleus of tumor cells and destroy their DNA ( deoxyribonucleic acid), as a result of which the cell loses the ability to divide ( multiply). The advantages of the technique include the fact that protons are relatively weakly scattered in the environment. This allows the radiation to be focused precisely on the tumor tissue, even if it is located deep in an organ ( for example, tumor of the eye, brain, etc.). The surrounding tissues, as well as healthy tissues through which protons pass on the way to the tumor, receive a negligibly small dose of radiation, and therefore are practically not affected.Ion beam therapy
The essence of the technique is similar to proton therapy, but in this case, instead of protons, other particles are used - heavy ions. Using special technologies, these ions are accelerated to speeds close to the speed of light. At the same time, they accumulate a huge amount of energy. The equipment is then adjusted so that the ions pass through healthy tissue and directly hit the tumor cells ( even if they are located deep in some organ). Passing through healthy cells at enormous speed, heavy ions practically do not damage them. At the same time, when braking ( which occurs when ions reach tumor tissue) they release the energy accumulated in them, which causes the destruction of DNA ( deoxyribonucleic acid) in tumor cells and their death.The disadvantages of the technique include the need to use massive equipment ( the size of a three-story house), as well as the huge expenditure of electrical energy used during the procedure.
Electron beam therapy
With this type of therapy, body tissues are exposed to electron beams charged with large amounts of energy. Passing through tissues, electrons give off energy to the genetic apparatus of the cell and other intracellular structures, which leads to their destruction. Distinctive feature This type of irradiation is that electrons can penetrate tissue only to a small depth ( by a few millimeters). In this regard, electronic therapy is used mainly for the treatment of superficial tumors - cancer of the skin, mucous membranes, and so on.Gamma radiation therapy
This technique is characterized by irradiating the body with gamma rays. The peculiarity of these rays is that they have a high penetrating ability, that is, under normal conditions they can penetrate the entire human body, affecting almost all organs and tissues. When gamma rays pass through cells, they have the same effects as other types of radiation ( that is, they cause damage to the genetic apparatus and intracellular structures, thereby interrupting the process of cell division and contributing to the death of the tumor). This technique is indicated for massive tumors, as well as in the presence of metastases in various organs and tissues, when treatment is carried out using high-precision methods ( proton or ion therapy) impossible.X-ray therapy
With this method of treatment, the patient’s body is exposed to x-rays, which also have the ability to destroy tumor cells ( and normal) cells. Radiotherapy can be used both to treat superficial tumors and to destroy deeper malignant tumors. The severity of irradiation of neighboring healthy tissues is relatively high, so today this method is used less and less.It is worth noting that the method of using gamma therapy and radiotherapy may vary depending on the size, location and type of tumor. In this case, the radiation source can be located either at a certain distance from the patient’s body or in direct contact with it.
Depending on the location of the radiation source, radiation therapy can be:
- remote;
- close-focus;
- contact;
- intracavitary;
- interstitial.
External beam radiotherapy
The essence of this technique is that the radiation source ( X-rays, gamma rays and so on) is located away from human body (more than 30 cm from the surface of the skin). It is prescribed in cases where malignant tumor located deep in an organ. During the procedure, ionizing rays released from the source pass through healthy tissues of the body, after which they are focused in the tumor area, providing their therapeutic effect ( that is destructive) action. One of the main disadvantages of this method is the relatively strong irradiation of not only the tumor itself, but also healthy tissue located in the path of X-ray or gamma radiation.Close focus radiation therapy
With this type of radiotherapy, the radiation source is located less than 7.5 cm from the surface of the tissue affected by the tumor process. This allows radiation to be concentrated in a strictly defined area, while at the same time reducing the severity of the effects of radiation on other, healthy tissue. This technique is used to treat superficial tumors - cancer of the skin, mucous membranes, and so on.Contact radiotherapy ( intracavitary, interstitial)
The essence of this method is that the source of ionizing radiation is in contact with the tumor tissue or is in close proximity to it. This allows the use of the most intense irradiation doses, which increases the patient’s chances of recovery. At the same time, there is minimal impact of radiation on neighboring, healthy cells, which significantly reduces the risk of adverse reactions.Contact radiation therapy can be:
- Intracavity– in this case, the radiation source is introduced into the cavity of the affected organ ( uterus, rectum and so on).
- Interstitial– in this case, small particles of radioactive substance ( in the form of balls, needles or wires) are injected directly into the tissue of the affected organ, as close as possible to the tumor or directly into it ( for example, prostate cancer).
- Intraluminal– a radiation source can be introduced into the lumen of the esophagus, trachea or bronchi, thereby providing a local therapeutic effect.
- Superficial– in this case, the radioactive substance is applied directly to the tumor tissue located on the surface of the skin or mucous membrane.
- Intravascular– when the radiation source is introduced directly into a blood vessel and is fixed in it.
Stereotactic radiotherapy
This is the latest method of radiation therapy, which allows irradiation of tumors of any location, while at the same time having virtually no effect on healthy tissue. The essence of the procedure is as follows. After a full examination and precise determination of the location of the tumor, the patient lies on a special table and is fixed using special frames. This will ensure complete immobility of the patient’s body during the procedure, which is an extremely important point.After fixing the patient, the device is installed. At the same time, it is configured in such a way that after the start of the procedure, the emitter of ionizing rays begins to rotate around the patient’s body ( more precisely around the tumor), irradiating it from different sides. Firstly, such irradiation ensures the most effective effect of radiation on tumor tissue, which contributes to its destruction. Secondly, with this technique, the radiation dose to healthy tissue is negligibly small, since it is distributed among many cells located around the tumor. As a result, the risk of side effects and complications is minimized.
3D conformal radiotherapy
This is also one of the latest methods radiation therapy, which makes it possible to irradiate tumor tissue as accurately as possible, while at the same time having virtually no effect on healthy cells of the human body. The principle of the method is that during the examination of the patient, not only the location of the tumor is determined, but also its shape. The patient must also remain stationary during the radiation procedure. High-precision equipment is adjusted in such a way that the emitted radiation takes the form of a tumor and affects exclusively the tumor tissue ( with an accuracy of a few millimeters).What is the difference between concomitant and combined radiation therapy?
Radiotherapy can be used as an independent treatment technique, as well as in conjunction with other treatment measures.Radiation therapy can be:
- Combined. The essence of this technique is that radiotherapy is combined with other therapeutic measures - chemotherapy ( introducing chemicals into the body that destroy tumor cells) and/or surgical removal of the tumor.
- Combined. In this case, simultaneously apply various ways exposure to ionizing radiation on tumor tissue. For example, for the treatment of a skin tumor growing into deeper tissues, close-focus and contact ( superficial) radiation therapy. This will destroy the main tumor focus, as well as prevent further spread of the tumor process. Unlike combination therapy, other treatments ( chemotherapy or surgery) do not apply in this case.
How does radical radiation therapy differ from palliative radiation therapy?
Depending on the purpose of administration, radiation therapy is divided into radical and palliative. Radical radiotherapy is spoken of when the goal of treatment is the complete removal of the tumor from the human body, after which a complete recovery should occur. Palliative radiotherapy is prescribed in cases where it is not possible to completely remove the tumor ( for example, if a tumor grows into vital organs or large blood vessels, its removal can lead to the development of serious complications incompatible with life). In this case, the goal of treatment is to reduce the size of the tumor and slow down its growth process, which will alleviate the patient’s condition and prolong his life for some time ( for several weeks or months).How is radiation therapy performed?
Before prescribing radiation therapy, the patient must be comprehensively examined, which will allow the most effective treatment method to be selected. During a radiotherapy session, the patient must follow all the doctor’s instructions, as otherwise the effectiveness of treatment may be reduced and various complications may occur. Preparing for radiation therapy
The preparatory stage includes clarifying the diagnosis, choosing the optimal therapeutic tactics, as well as a full examination of the patient in order to identify any concomitant diseases or pathologies that could affect the results of treatment.Preparation for radiation therapy includes:
- Clarification of tumor localization. For this purpose, ultrasound is prescribed ( ultrasonography) , CT ( CT scan ), MRI ( Magnetic resonance imaging) and so on. All these studies allow us to “look” inside the body and determine the location of the tumor, its size, shape, and so on.
- Clarification of the nature of the tumor. The tumor may consist of different types of cells, which can be determined using histological examination ( during which part of the tumor tissue is removed and examined under a microscope). Depending on the cellular structure The radiosensitivity of the tumor is determined. If she is sensitive to radiation therapy, several courses of treatment may lead to full recovery patient. If the tumor is resistant to radiotherapy, treatment may require large doses of radiation, and the result may not be sufficiently pronounced ( that is, the tumor may remain even after an intensive course of treatment with the maximum permissible doses of radiation). In this case, it is necessary to use combined radiotherapy or use other treatment methods.
- Anamnesis collection. At this stage, the doctor talks with the patient, asking him about all existing or previously suffered diseases, operations, injuries, and so on. It is extremely important that the patient honestly answers the doctor’s questions, since the success of the upcoming treatment largely depends on this.
- Collection of laboratory tests. All patients must undergo a general blood test, biochemical blood test ( allows you to evaluate the functions of internal organs), urine tests ( allow you to evaluate kidney function) and so on. All this will help determine whether the patient will withstand the upcoming course of radiation therapy or whether it will cause him to develop life-threatening complications.
- Informing the patient and obtaining his consent to treatment. Before starting radiation therapy, the doctor must tell the patient everything about the upcoming treatment method, the chances of success, alternative treatment methods, and so on. Moreover, the doctor must inform the patient about all possible side effects and complications that may develop during or after radiotherapy. If the patient agrees to treatment, he must sign the appropriate papers. Only after this can you proceed directly to radiotherapy.
Procedure ( session) radiation therapy
After thorough examination the patient, determining the location and size of the tumor, a computer simulation of the upcoming procedure is performed. Data about the tumor is entered into a special computer program, and the necessary treatment program is also set ( that is, the power, duration and other parameters of irradiation are set). The entered data is carefully checked several times, and only after that the patient can be allowed into the room where the radiotherapy procedure will be performed.Before starting the procedure, the patient must remove outer clothing and leave it outside ( outside the room where treatment will be carried out) all personal items, including phone, documents, jewelry and so on, to prevent their exposure to radiation. After this, the patient must lie down on a special table in the position indicated by the doctor ( this position is determined depending on the location and size of the tumor) and don't move. The doctor carefully checks the patient’s position, and then leaves the room to a specially equipped room, from where he will supervise the procedure. At the same time, he will constantly see the patient ( through special protective glass or through video equipment) and will communicate with him through audio devices. Medical personnel or relatives of the patient are prohibited from remaining in the same room with the patient, as this may also expose them to radiation.
After the patient is positioned, the doctor starts the machine, which is supposed to irradiate the tumor with one or another type of radiation. However, before irradiation begins, the patient's position and the location of the tumor are checked again using special diagnostic instruments. Such a thorough and repeated check is due to the fact that a deviation of even a few millimeters can lead to irradiation of healthy tissue. The irradiated cells will die, and part of the tumor may remain unaffected, as a result of which it will continue to develop. The effectiveness of treatment will be reduced, and the risk of complications will be increased.
After all preparations and checks, the irradiation procedure itself begins, the duration of which usually does not exceed 10 minutes ( on average 3 – 5 minutes). During radiation, the patient must lie absolutely still until the doctor says that the procedure is over. If any discomfort occurs ( dizziness, darkening of the eyes, nausea and so on) should be reported to your doctor immediately.
If radiotherapy is performed in outpatient setting (without hospitalization), after completion of the procedure the patient must remain under observation medical personnel for 30 – 60 minutes. If no complications are observed, the patient can go home. If the patient is hospitalized ( receiving treatment in hospital), he can be sent to the ward immediately after the session is completed.
Does radiation therapy hurt?
The procedure itself for irradiating a cancerous tumor takes several minutes and is absolutely painless. With proper diagnosis and equipment adjustment, only malignant neoplasms are exposed to irradiation, while changes in healthy tissues are minimal and practically imperceptible to humans. At the same time, it is worth noting that when a single dose of ionizing radiation is significantly exceeded, various pathological processes can develop in tissues, which can manifest as pain or other adverse reactions several hours or days after the procedure. If any pain occurs during the course of treatment ( during breaks between sessions), this should be reported to your doctor immediately.How long does a course of radiation therapy last?
The duration of the course of radiotherapy depends on many factors that are assessed for each patient individually. On average, 1 course lasts about 3 – 7 weeks, during which radiation procedures can be performed daily, every other day or 5 days a week. The number of sessions during the day can also vary from 1 to 2 – 3.The duration of radiotherapy is determined:
- The purpose of treatment. If radiotherapy is used as the only method radical treatment tumors treatment course takes on average from 5 to 7 weeks. If the patient is prescribed palliative radiation therapy, treatment may be shorter.
- Time of treatment. If radiotherapy is given before surgery ( to reduce tumor size), the course of treatment is about 2 – 4 weeks. If irradiation is carried out in the postoperative period, its duration can reach 6–7 weeks. Intraoperative radiotherapy ( irradiation of tissue immediately after tumor removal) is carried out once.
- The patient's condition. If, after starting radiotherapy, the patient’s condition sharply worsens and life-threatening complications arise, the course of treatment can be interrupted at any time.
Cancer is the most unpleasant prognosis that a doctor can offer. There is still no medicine that guarantees a cure for this disease. The insidiousness of cancer is that it affects almost all known organs. In addition, cancer can spread its “tentacles” even into the body of domestic animals. Is there a way to fight this enemy? Radiation therapy in oncology is considered one of the most effective methods. But the point is that many refuse this prospect.
Let's go through the basics
What do we know about cancer? This disease is almost incurable. Moreover, the incidence is growing every year. The French are most often affected by the disease, which is explained by the aging population, since the disease often affects older people.
In essence, cancer is a disease of cells, during which they begin to continuously divide, forming new pathologies. By the way, cancer cells do not die, but simply transform into a new stage. This is the most dangerous moment. Our body a priori has a certain supply of cancer cells, but they can grow quantitatively due to external factors, which are bad habits, abuse of fatty foods, stress or even heredity.
However, the tumor that is formed by these cells can be benign if it grows outside the organ. In such a situation, it can be cut out and thereby eliminate the problem. But if the tumor grows on the bone or it has grown through healthy tissue, then cutting it out is almost impossible. In any case, if the tumor is removed surgically, then radiation therapy is inevitable. This method is quite common in oncology. But more and more sick people are abandoning this practice due to fear of radiation exposure.
Types of treatment
If there is a disease, then it is worth considering the main methods of treatment. These include surgical removal tumors. By the way, it is always removed with a reserve to eliminate the risk of possible tumor growth into healthy tissue. In particular, for breast cancer, the entire gland is removed along with the axillary and subclavian lymph nodes. If a certain part of the cancer cells is missed, the growth of metastases accelerates and chemotherapy is required, which is an effective method against rapidly dividing cells. Radiotherapy, which kills malignant cells, is also in use. In addition, they use cryo- and photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, which provides assistance immune system in the fight against tumors. If the tumor is detected at an advanced stage, then a combination treatment or the use of narcotic drugs that relieve pain and depression may be prescribed.
Indications
So, when is radiation therapy needed in oncology? When talking with a sick person, the most important thing is to rationally explain the need for this method of treatment and clearly formulate the goal that you want to achieve in this way. If the tumor is malignant, then radiation therapy in oncology is used as the main method of treatment or in combination with surgery. The doctor expects the treatment to reduce the size of the tumor, temporarily stop growth, and relieve pain. For two thirds of cancer cases, radiation therapy is used in oncology. The consequences of this method are expressed in increased sensitivity of the diseased area. For some types of tumors, radiation therapy is more preferable than surgery, as it is less traumatic and has the best cosmetic result in open areas.
For epithelial tumors, combined radiation and surgery, and the primary one is radiation, as it helps to reduce the tumor and suppress its growth. If the operation was not effective enough, then postoperative radiation is indicated.
For forms with distant metastases, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy is indicated.
Contraindications
When is radiation therapy clearly inappropriate in oncology? The consequences are not the most pleasant if there is lymphopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, as well as any diseases accompanied by high temperature and febrile state. If you will be exposed to radiation chest, then the risk factor will be cardiovascular or respiratory failure, as well as pneumonia.
Radiation therapy in oncology after surgery is indicated for those people who have excellent health of the central nervous system and genitourinary system. They shouldn't endure acute diseases, have pustules, allergic rashes or inflammation of the skin. There are also conditions, for example, anemia cannot be considered a contraindication if bleeding is coming from a tumor. After all, after the first sessions of therapy, bleeding may stop.
Unexpected risk
Radiation therapy in oncology after surgery may be an unjustified risk if the patient's medical history contains a record of a tuberculosis process. The fact is that irradiation makes it likely that a dormant infection will worsen from latent foci. But at the same time, closed forms of tuberculosis will not be considered a contraindication, although they will require drug treatment during radiation therapy.
Accordingly, exacerbation will be possible subject to the existing inflammatory process, purulent foci, bacterial or viral infections.
Based on all of the above, it can be revealed that the use of radiation therapy is determined by specific circumstances based on a set of arguments. In particular, the criteria will be the expected time frame for the manifestation of results and the likely life expectancy of the patient.
Specific Goals
Tumor tissue is very sensitive to radioactive radiation. That is why radiation therapy has become widespread. Oncology treatment with radiation therapy is carried out with the aim of damaging cancer cells and their subsequent death. The impact is carried out on both the primary tumor and the isolated metastases. The goal may also be to limit aggressive cell growth with the possible transfer of the tumor to an operable state. Also, to prevent the occurrence of metastases in cells, radiation therapy in oncology may be recommended. The consequences, reviews and mood of sick people differ polarly, since, in essence, it involves irradiating the body in order to destroy damaged cells. How will this affect your health? Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict with accuracy, since everything depends on the individual characteristics of the organism.
Types of therapy
With an eye to the properties and sources of the radiation beam, various types of radiation therapy in oncology are distinguished. These are alpha, beta, gamma therapies, as well as neutron, pi-meson and proton. There is also X-ray and electron therapy. For each type of cancer, radiation exposure has a unique effect, since the cells behave differently depending on the extent of the damage and the severity of the disease. With equal success, you can count on a complete cure or absolutely zero result.
When choosing the method of irradiation, the location of the tumor plays an important role, since it may be located near vital organs or blood vessels. Internal irradiation occurs when a radioactive substance is placed into the body through the digestive tract, bronchi, bladder or vagina. The substance can also be injected into blood vessels or through contact during surgery.
But external radiation comes through the skin. It can be general or focused on a specific area. The source of exposure can be radioactive chemicals or special medical equipment. If external and internal irradiation is performed simultaneously, it is called combined radiotherapy. Based on the distance between the skin and the beam source, remote, close-focus and contact irradiation is distinguished.
Algorithm of actions
But how is radiation therapy done for oncology? Treatment begins with histological confirmation of the presence of a tumor. Already on the basis of this document, tissue affiliation, localization and clinical stage are established. The radiologist, based on these data, calculates the radiation dose and the number of sessions required for treatment. All calculations can now be done automatically, since there are corresponding computer programs. Available data also help determine whether radiation therapy should be given in combination with or without other modalities. If the treatment is combined, then irradiation can be carried out both before and after surgery. According to the standard, the duration of the course of radiation before surgery should be no more than three weeks. During this time, radiation therapy can significantly reduce the size of the tumor. In oncology, reviews of this method are very polar, since the effect remains unpredictable. It also happens that the body literally repels radiation or accepts it with healthy cells rather than diseased ones.
If radiation therapy is carried out after surgery, it can last from a month to two.
Side effects of the procedure
After starting a course of treatment, a sick person may experience weakness and chronic fatigue. His appetite decreases and his mood worsens. Accordingly, he can lose a lot of weight. Changes can be observed in tests - the number of red blood cells, platelets and leukocytes in the blood decreases. In some cases, the site of contact with the beam may become swollen and inflamed. This can cause ulcers to form.
Until recently, irradiation was carried out without taking into account the fact that healthy cells could also fall into the action zone. However, science is moving forward and intraoperative radiation therapy has appeared in breast oncology. The essence of the technique is that the irradiation process can be started at the surgical stage, that is, after excision, the beam can be directed to the intervention site. Promptness in this matter allows us to minimize the likelihood of residual tumor, as it is neutralized.
With a breast tumor, a woman always has the risk that she will have to part with her breasts. This prospect is often even more frightening than fatal disease. And breast restoration through intervention plastic surgeons too expensive for average residents. Therefore, women turn to radiation therapy as a means of salvation, since it can allow them to limit themselves to excision of the tumor itself, rather than removing the gland completely. Places of possible germination will be treated with rays.
The effect of radiation therapy directly depends on the patient’s health, his mood, existing side diseases and the depth of penetration of radiological rays. Often the effects of radiation appear in those patients who have undergone a long course of treatment. Minor pain may occur for a long time- it is the affected muscle tissue that reminds of itself.
The main problem of women
According to statistics, radiation therapy in uterine oncology is the most common treatment method. This pathology occurs in older women. It must be said that the uterus is a multi-layered organ, and cancer affects the walls, spreading to other organs and tissues. IN last years Uterine cancer also occurs among young women, which doctors often explain early onset sexual activity and carelessness regarding contraception. If you “catch” the disease at an early stage, then it can be cured completely, but in the late period it can be achieved complete remission will not succeed, but following the recommendations of the oncologist, you can prolong a person’s life.
The basis of treatment for uterine cancer is surgical intervention, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. A bonus is hormonal treatment, special diet and immunotherapy. If the cancer is actively progressing, then excision is not the right method. Better results can be achieved through irradiation. The procedure is prohibited in case of anemia, radiation sickness, multiple metastases and other ailments.
Radiotherapeutic techniques may vary in the distance between the source and the affected area. Contact radiotherapy is the mildest, since it involves internal exposure: a catheter is inserted into the vagina. Healthy tissues are practically not affected. In this case, can the cancer suffered be harmless? After radiation therapy, after removal of the uterus and other unpleasant procedures, the woman is weak and vulnerable, so she absolutely needs to reconsider her lifestyle and diet.
The uterus is removed if the tumor has grown greatly and affected the entire organ. Alas, in this situation, the possibility of further procreation is called into question. But this is not the time to regret, since so radical measures will extend the life of a sick woman. Now you need to reduce intoxication, which is done by drink plenty of fluids, eating plant foods and vitamin complexes with the lion's share of antioxidants. Protein food should be introduced into the diet gradually, focusing on fish, chicken or rabbit meat. Bad habits need to be eliminated once and for all, and made a rule preventive visits to an oncologist.
It is worth including foods that have anti-cancer effects in your diet. These include potatoes, cabbage in all varieties, onions, herbs and various spices. You can focus on dishes made from cereals or whole grains. Soybeans, asparagus and peas are held in high esteem. Beans, beets, carrots and fresh fruits are also useful. It’s still better to replace meat with fish and eat more often dairy products low fat content. But all alcoholic drinks, strong tea, smoked and salty foods, and marinades are prohibited. We'll have to say goodbye to chocolate, processed foods and fast food.
Should I always be treated in hospital?
Most radiation treatments today do not require a hospital stay. The patient can spend the night at home and come to the clinic on an outpatient basis, solely for the treatment itself. The exception is those types of radiation therapy that require such extensive preparation that going home simply does not make sense. The same applies to treatments that require surgery, such as brachytherapy, which uses radiation from the inside.
For some complex combination chemoradiotherapy treatments, it is also advisable to remain in the clinic.
In addition, exceptions are possible when deciding on possible outpatient treatment if the patient's general condition does not allow treatment on an outpatient basis or if doctors believe that regular observation would be safer for the patient.
How much weight can I bear during radiation therapy?
Whether treatment changes the load limit depends on the type of treatment. Possibility of developing side effects during head or volume irradiation extensive tumors greater than with targeted irradiation of a small tumor. The underlying disease and general condition play an important role. If the overall condition of patients is severely limited due to the underlying disease, if they have symptoms such as pain, or have lost weight, then radiation represents an additional burden.
Ultimately and mental situation exerts its influence. Treatment for several weeks abruptly interrupts the usual rhythm of life, is repeated again and again, and in itself is tiresome and burdensome.
In general, even among patients with the same disease, doctors observe great differences - some experience virtually no problems, others clearly feel sick, their condition is limited by side effects such as fatigue, headaches or lack of appetite, they need more rest . Many patients feel at least so well overall that, during outpatient treatment, they are only moderately limited or have no restrictions at all in performing simple activities.
Whether higher physical activity, such as sports or short trips, is allowed between courses of treatment should be decided by the attending physician. Anyone who wants to return to their workplace during the period of exposure must also discuss this issue with doctors and the health insurance fund.
What should I pay attention to regarding nutrition?
The effects of radiation or radionuclide therapy on nutrition are difficult to describe in general terms. Patients who receive high doses of radiation in the mouth, larynx or throat are in a completely different situation than, for example, patients with breast cancer, in whom the digestive tract is completely excluded from the radiation field and in whose case treatment is mainly , is carried out to consolidate the success of the operation.
Patients whose digestive tract is not affected during treatment usually do not have to worry about any nutritional or digestive consequences.
They can eat as usual, but they need to pay attention to consuming enough calories and a balanced combination of foods.
How should you eat if your head or digestive tract is irradiated?
Patients in whom the oral cavity, larynx or digestive tract are the target of radiation, or whose associated radiation exposure cannot be avoided, require the supervision of a nutritionist, in accordance with the recommendations of the German and European Society of Dietetics (www.dgem.de). In their case, you can expect problems when eating. The mucous membrane may be damaged, leading to pain and risk of infection. In the worst case scenario, problems with swallowing and other problems are also possible. functional disorders. It is necessary to avoid insufficient supply of energy and nutrients, which may arise due to this type of problem, which under certain circumstances may even lead to interruption of treatment - this is the opinion of professional communities.
Monitoring and support are especially needed for those patients who, even before the start of radiation, could not eat normally, lost weight and/or showed certain deficiencies. The question of whether a patient needs maintenance nutrition ("Nutrition for astronauts") or the insertion of a feeding tube is decided depending on the individual situation, preferably before the start of treatment.
Patients who develop nausea or vomiting that is time-associated with radiation should be sure to talk to their doctors about medications that control nausea.
Do complementary or alternative medicines, vitamins and minerals cope with the consequences of radiation?
Out of fear of side effects, many patients turn to medications that are said to protect them from radiation damage and side effects. Regarding the products that patients ask about in the cancer information service, here we provide the so-called “top list of drugs”, including complementary and alternative methods, vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements.
However, the vast majority of these proposals are not at all medicines and they have no role in cancer treatment. In particular, with regard to some vitamins, there is debate about whether they may even have a negative effect on the effects of radiation:
The purported protection against side effects offered by so-called radical scavengers or antioxidants such as vitamin A, C or E could, at least in theory, counteract the necessary effect of ionizing radiation in tumors. That is, not only healthy tissue would be protected, but also cancer cells.
Early clinical trials in patients with head and neck tumors appear to confirm this concern.
Can I prevent damage to the skin and mucous membranes with proper care?
Irradiated skin requires careful care. Washing in most cases is not taboo, however, it should be done, if possible, without the use of soap, shower gel, etc., as recommended by the working group on side effects of the German Society of Radiation Oncology. Using perfume or deodorant is also inadvisable. As for powder, creams or ointments, in this case you can only use what the doctor has approved. Once the radiation therapist has marked your skin, it should not be removed. The linen should not press or rub; when drying with a towel, do not rub the skin.
The first symptoms of a reaction often resemble a mild sunburn. If more intense redness or even blistering occurs, patients should consult a doctor, even if a medical appointment has not been scheduled. In the long term, irradiated skin may change pigmentation, meaning it may become either slightly darker or lighter. Sweat glands may be destroyed. However, today severe injuries have become very rare.
What should dental care look like?
For patients who must undergo radiation to the head and/or neck, dental care poses a special challenge. The mucous membrane is one of the tissues whose cells divide very quickly, and it suffers from treatment more than, for example, the skin. Small, painful sores are quite common. The risk of developing infections increases.
If at all possible, you should consult with your dentist before starting radiation, possibly even dental clinic, which has experience in preparing patients for radiation therapy. Dental defects, if any, should be eliminated before treatment, however, this is often impossible to do on time for practical reasons.
During irradiation, experts recommend brushing your teeth thoroughly, but very carefully, to reduce the number of bacteria in the oral cavity, despite the possible damage to the mucous membrane. To protect teeth, many radiologists work with their dentists to administer fluoride prophylaxis using gels that are used like toothpaste or applied directly to the teeth through a mouthguard over a period of time.
Will my hair fall out?
Hair loss due to radiation can only occur if the part of the head covered with hair is in the radiation field and the radiation dose is relatively high. This also applies hairline on the body that enters the radiation field. Thus, adjuvant radiation to the breast for breast cancer, for example, does not affect scalp hair, eyelashes, or eyebrows. Only hair growth axillary area on the affected side, which falls into the radiation field, may become more scarce. However, if hair follicles are truly damaged, it may take six months or more until visible hair growth appears again. What hair care should look like during this time should be discussed with your doctor. Important is good protection from sun rays for the scalp.
Some patients, after irradiation of the head, are forced to reckon with the fact that for some time hair growth directly at the site of the rays will be sparse. At doses above 50 Gray, radiation therapy specialists assume that not all hair follicles will be able to grow back. To date, there are no effective means to combat or prevent this problem.
Will I be "radioactive"? Should I stay away from other people?
This needs to be clarified
Ask your doctors about this! They will explain to you whether you will be in contact with radioactive substances at all. This does not happen with normal radiation. If you do come into contact with such substances, you and your family will receive several recommendations from your doctors about protecting yourself from radiation.
This issue worries many patients, as well as their loved ones, especially if there are small children or pregnant women in the family.
With “normal” transcutaneous radiotherapy, the patient himself is still not radioactive! The rays penetrate his body and there they give off their energy, which is absorbed by the tumor. No radioactive material is used. Even close physical contact is completely safe for relatives and friends.
With brachytherapy, radioactive material may remain in the patient's body for a short time. While the patient is “emitting rays,” he usually remains in the hospital. When doctors give the green light for discharge, there is no longer any danger to family and visitors.
Are there long-term consequences that I should take into account even after a few years?
Radiation therapy: For many patients, radiation treatment leaves no visible changes to the skin or internal organs. However, they need to know that once irradiated tissue is long time remains more receptive, even if this is not very noticeable in everyday life. However, if you consider increased sensitivity skin when caring for the body, when treating possible irritations caused by exposure to sunlight, as well as mechanical stress on the tissue, then usually little can happen.
When carrying out medical activities in the area of the former radiation field, when taking blood, physiotherapy, etc., the responsible specialist must indicate that he should be careful. Otherwise, even with minor injuries, there is a danger that, in the absence of professional treatment, the healing process will proceed incorrectly and a chronic wound will form.
Organ damage
Not only the skin, but every organ that has received too high a dose of radiation can respond to irradiation with tissue changes.
This includes scar changes, in which healthy tissue is replaced by less elastic connective tissue (atrophy, sclerosis), and the function of the tissue or organ itself is lost.
The blood supply is also affected. It is either insufficient, because connective tissue the blood supply through the veins is worse, or multiple small and dilated veins (telangiectasia) are formed. After irradiation, the glands and tissues of the mucous membranes become very sensitive and, due to scarring, react to the smallest changes by sticking.
What organs are affected?
Typically, only those areas that were actually in the radiation field are affected. If the organ is affected, then cicatricial restructuring, for example, in the salivary glands, oral cavity and other parts of the digestive tract, in the vagina or in the genitourinary tract, under certain circumstances actually leads to loss of function or to the formation of obstructive narrowings.
The brain and nerves can also be damaged by high doses of radiation. If the uterus, ovaries, testicles or prostate gland were in the path of the rays, the ability to conceive children may be lost.
Damage to the heart is also possible, for example in patients with cancer in whom radiation to the chest was not able to bypass the heart.
From clinical and preclinical studies, radiologists know the tissue-specific radiation doses at which similar or other severe damage can be expected. Therefore, they try to avoid such stress as much as possible. New targeted irradiation techniques have made this task easier.
If it is impossible to reach the tumor without irradiating a sensitive organ along the way, then patients, along with their doctors, must jointly consider the balance of benefit and risk.
Secondary cancers
In the worst case scenario, delayed effects in healthy cells also lead to the appearance of radiation-induced secondary tumors (secondary carcinomas). They are explained by persistent changes in the genetic substance. A healthy cell can repair such damage, but only to a certain extent. Under certain conditions, they are still transmitted to daughter cells. There is an increased risk that further cell division will cause even more damage and eventually cause a tumor. In general, the risk after exposure is small. It can often take several decades before such an “error” actually occurs. However, the majority of all exposed cancer patients become ill in the second half of their lives. This must be taken into account when comparing possible risks and benefits from treatment.
In addition, the load with new irradiation methods is much less than with those methods that were used a couple of decades ago. For example, young women who have received extensive radiation to the chest because of lymphoma, called magnetic field radiation around the chest, tend to have a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer. For this reason, when treating lymphomas, doctors try to use extensive radiation as little as possible. Among patients with prostate cancer who received radiotherapy before the late 1980s using conventional methods at that time, the risk of developing bowel cancer was higher compared with healthy men. A current study by American scientists shows that since about 1990 the risk has decreased significantly - the use of newer and much more targeted radiation techniques now means that in most men the intestines are no longer exposed to the radiation field at all.
Probably not worse than the disease today than cancer. This disease does not look at age or status. He mercilessly mows down everyone. Modern methods Tumor treatments are quite effective if the disease is detected in the early stages. However, cancer treatment also has a negative side. For example, radiation therapy, the side effects of which sometimes have high health risks.
Benign and malignant tumors
A tumor is a pathological formation in tissues and organs that grows rapidly, causing fatal harm to organs and tissues. All neoplasms can be divided into benign and malignant.
Benign tumor cells are not much different from healthy cells. They grow slowly and do not spread beyond their source. They are much simpler and easier to treat. They are not fatal to the body.
Malignant tumor cells are structurally different from normal healthy cells. Cancer grows quickly, affecting other organs and tissues (metastasizes).
Benign tumors do not cause any particular discomfort to the patient. Malignant ones are accompanied by pain and general exhaustion of the body. The patient loses weight, appetite, interest in life.
Cancer develops in stages. The first and second stages have the most favorable prognosis. The third and fourth stages are the growth of the tumor into other organs and tissues, that is, the formation of metastases. Treatment at this stage is aimed at pain relief and prolonging the patient’s life.
No one is immune from a disease such as cancer. People at particular risk are:
With a genetic predisposition.
With a weakened immune system.
Leading an unhealthy lifestyle.
Working under hazardous working conditions.
Those who have received any mechanical injuries.
For prevention purposes, you need to be examined by a therapist once a year and get tested. For those who are at risk, it is advisable to donate blood for tumor markers. This analysis helps to recognize cancer in the early stages.
How is cancer treated?
There are several ways to treat malignant tumors:
Irradiation at a distance.
Contact irradiation.
Intracavitary irradiation (a radioactive source is introduced into an organ with a neoplasm).
Interstitial irradiation (a radioactive source is injected into the tumor itself).
Surgery. Basic method. It is used in cases where the tumor is not yet large enough, as well as when there are no metastases (early stages of the disease). Radiation or chemotherapy may be performed first.
Radiation therapy of tumors. Irradiation of cancer cells using a special device. This method used as an independent method, as well as in combination with other methods.
Chemotherapy. Treating cancer with chemicals. Used in combination with radiation therapy or surgery to reduce the size of the tumor. It is also used to prevent metastasis.
Hormone therapy. Used to treat ovarian, breast and thyroid cancer.
The most effective treatment today is surgical treatment of tumors. The operation has the least number of side effects and gives the patient a greater chance of a healthy life. However, application of the method is not always possible. In such cases, other treatment methods are used. The most common of which is radiation therapy. Although side effects after it cause many health problems, the patient’s chances of recovery are high.
Radiation therapy
It is also called radiotherapy. The method is based on the use of ionizing radiation, which absorbs the tumor and self-destructs. Unfortunately, not all cancers are sensitive to radiation. Therefore, the choice of treatment method should be made after a thorough examination and assessment of all risks for the patient.
Radiation therapy treatment, although effective, has a number of side effects. The main one is the destruction of healthy tissues and cells. Radiation affects not only the tumor, but also neighboring organs. The method of radiation therapy is prescribed in cases where the benefit to the patient is high.
Radium, cobalt, iridium, and cesium are used for radiation. Radiation doses are calculated individually and depend on the characteristics of the tumor.
How is radiation therapy performed?
Radiotherapy can be carried out in several ways:
Radiation therapy is used:
after surgery (to remove residual tumor formation);
before surgery (to reduce tumor size);
during the development of metastases;
during relapses of the disease.
Thus, the method has three goals:
Radical - complete removal of the tumor.
Palliative - reduction in tumor size.
Symptomatic - elimination of pain symptoms.
Radiation therapy helps cure many malignant tumors. With its help, you can alleviate the suffering of the patient. And also to prolong his life when healing is impossible. For example, radiation therapy to the brain provides the patient with legal capacity and relieves painful sensations and other unpleasant symptoms.
Who is contraindicated for radiation?
As a method of fighting cancer, radiation therapy is not suitable for everyone. It is prescribed only in cases where the benefit to the patient is higher than the risk of complications. For a certain group of people, radiotherapy is generally contraindicated. These include patients who:
Severe anemia, cachexia (sharp loss of strength and exhaustion).
There are diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Radiation therapy of the lungs is contraindicated for cancerous pleurisy.
Observed renal failure, diabetes.
There is bleeding associated with the tumor.
There are multiple metastases with deep invasion into organs and tissues.
The blood contains a low number of leukocytes and platelets.
Radiation intolerance (radiation sickness).
For such patients, the course of radiation therapy is replaced by other methods - chemotherapy, surgery (if possible).
It should be noted that those who are indicated for radiation may suffer from side effects in the future. Since ionizing rays damage not only the structure but also healthy cells.
Side effects of radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is intense irradiation of the body with radioactive substances. In addition to the fact that this method is very effective in the fight against cancer, it has a whole bunch of side effects.
Radiation therapy has very different reviews from patients. For some, side effects appear after just a few procedures, while for others there are practically no side effects. One way or another, any unpleasant phenomena will disappear after completing the course of radiotherapy.
The most common consequences of the method:
Weakness, headache, dizziness, chills, increased
Disturbed work digestive system- nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting.
Changes in blood composition, decrease in platelets and leukocytes.
Increased number of heartbeats.
Swelling, dry skin, rashes in areas where radiation was applied.
Hair loss, hearing loss, vision loss.
Minor blood loss is caused by fragility of blood vessels.
This concerns the main negative points. After radiation therapy (full completion of the course), the functioning of all organs and systems is restored.
Nutrition and renewal of the body after irradiation
During treatment of tumors, no matter what method, it is necessary to eat properly and balanced. This way you can avoid a lot unpleasant symptoms illness (nausea and vomiting), especially if a course of radiation therapy or chemotherapy is prescribed.
Food should be taken often and in small portions.
Food should be varied, rich and fortified.
For a while, you should avoid foods that contain preservatives, as well as salty, smoked and fatty foods.
It is necessary to limit the consumption of dairy products due to possible lactose intolerance.
Carbonated and alcoholic drinks are prohibited.
Preference should be given to fresh vegetables and fruits.
In addition to proper nutrition, the patient should adhere to the following rules:
Get plenty of rest, especially after the radiation procedures themselves.
Do not take a hot bath, do not use hard sponges, toothbrushes, or decorative cosmetics.
Spend more time outdoors.
News healthy image life.
Radiation therapy has very different reviews from patients. However, without it, successful cancer treatment is impossible. Sticking to simple rules, you can avoid many unpleasant consequences.
For what diseases is RT prescribed?
Radiotherapy is widely used in medicine to treat cancer and some other diseases. depends on the severity of the illness and can be spread over a week or more. One session lasts from 1 to 5 minutes. Used in the fight against tumors that do not contain fluid or cysts (skin cancer, cervical, prostate and breast cancer, brain cancer, lung cancer, as well as leukemia and lymphomas).
Most often, radiation therapy is prescribed after surgery or before it in order to reduce the tumor in size and also kill the remaining cancer cells. In addition to malignant tumors, diseases of the nervous system, bones and some others are also treated with the help of radio radiation. Radiation doses in such cases differ from oncological doses.
Repeated radiation therapy
Irradiation of cancer cells is accompanied by simultaneous irradiation of healthy cells. Side effects after RT the phenomena are not pleasant. Of course, after canceling the course, the body recovers after some time. However, having received one dose of radiation, healthy tissues are unable to withstand repeated irradiation. If radiotherapy is used a second time, it is possible in emergency cases and at lower doses. The procedure is prescribed when the benefit to the patient outweighs the risks and complications to his health.
If re-irradiation is contraindicated, the oncologist may prescribe hormone therapy or chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy in late stages of cancer
The radiotherapy method is used not only to treat cancer, but also to prolong the life of a patient in the final stages of cancer, as well as to alleviate the symptoms of the disease.
When the tumor spreads to other tissues and organs (metastasizes), there is no longer a chance of recovery. The only thing that remains is to resign yourself and wait for that “day of judgment”. In this case, radiotherapy:
Reduces and sometimes completely eliminates pain attacks.
Reduces pressure on the nervous system, on bones, maintains capacity.
Reduces blood loss, if any.
Radiation for metastases is prescribed only to the sites of their spread. It should be remembered that radiation therapy has a variety of side effects. Therefore, if the patient is severely depleted and cannot withstand the dose of radiation, this method is not practiced.
Conclusion
The most terrible disease is cancer. The whole insidiousness of the disease is that it may not manifest itself in any way for a long time. for long years and in just a couple of months bring a person to death. Therefore, for the purpose of prevention, it is important to be periodically examined by a specialist. Detection of the disease in the early stages always results in complete healing. One of the effective methods of fighting cancer is radiation therapy. Side effects, although unpleasant, however, completely disappear after discontinuation of the course.
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