How does radiation therapy work for breast cancer?
CTF Help Staff asked 1 year ago
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells. It is often used as part of the treatment plan for breast cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery, shrink tumors before surgery, or alleviate symptoms caused by advanced cancer. Here’s an overview of how radiation therapy works and what it involves:
Types of Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
- Description: The most common type of radiation therapy for breast cancer. It involves directing high-energy X-rays at the affected area from outside the body.
- Procedure: Patients typically receive radiation five days a week for several weeks. Each session lasts only a few minutes, though setup time can take longer.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic
- Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)
- Description: This method involves placing radioactive sources inside the body, near the tumor site. It is often used after a lumpectomy.
- Types:
- Interstitial Brachytherapy: Radioactive seeds or pellets are placed directly into the breast tissue.
- Intracavitary Brachytherapy: A device with radioactive sources is placed inside a cavity left by the lumpectomy.
- Sources: National Cancer Institute, BreastCancer.org
How Radiation Therapy Kills Cancer Cells
- Mechanism: Radiation damages the DNA inside cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. The cancer cells eventually die and are eliminated by the body.
- Targeting: Radiation therapy is precisely targeted to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Techniques such as three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) help shape the radiation beams to the contour of the tumor.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic
When is Radiation Therapy Used?
- After Surgery (Adjuvant Radiation)
- Purpose: To destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or axilla (armpit), reducing the risk of recurrence.
- Common Uses: After lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or mastectomy, especially if there is a high risk of recurrence.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
- Before Surgery (Neoadjuvant Radiation)
- Purpose: To shrink large tumors before surgery, making them easier to remove.
- Sources: BreastCancer.org, Mayo Clinic
- For Advanced Breast Cancer
- Purpose: To alleviate symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by tumors.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
- Skin Changes
- Description: Redness, peeling, blistering, or darkening of the skin in the treated area.
- Management: Use mild skin care products and avoid tight clothing and direct sun exposure.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic
- Fatigue
- Description: A common side effect that can persist for several weeks or months after treatment ends.
- Management: Adequate rest, regular light exercise, and balanced nutrition.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
- Swelling (Edema)
- Description: Swelling in the breast or arm due to fluid buildup.
- Management: Physical therapy and compression garments.
- Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic
- Other Side Effects
- Lung Problems: Inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis) can occur, especially if radiation is given near the chest wall.
- Heart Problems: Increased risk of heart issues if the left breast is treated.
- Sources: National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society
Summary
Radiation therapy is a critical component of breast cancer treatment, effectively reducing the risk of recurrence and managing symptoms. Patients should discuss the benefits and potential side effects with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their treatment plan.Further Reading
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