Radiation therapy is treatment with high-energy particles aimed at a tumor to destroy cancer cells. Doctors may elect for radiation therapy as a means of shrinking a tumor before surgery or another procedure, such as a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Doctors may also elects for radiation therapy after a tumor has been removed, to destroy cancer cells remaining in the affected area.
External beam radiation focuses a beam of radiation from a source out side the body, much like an x-ray. The radiation team will determine the proper angles and locations for focusing the beam, and make measurements on the skin to use as a guide. The procedure usually takes a few minutes. Patients receive radiation therapy in an outpatient setting, five days a week for a period of several weeks.
The side effects from radiation therapy are fatigue, heaviness, swelling and changes on the skin. People receiving radiation therapy should avoid sun exposure because of their skin sensitivity. Also, doctors advise patients to abstain from antiperspirant use, as it interferes with the radiation.
