Adjuvant radiation therapy

Adjuvant Radiation Therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses high-energy particles or waves, such as X-rays, gamma rays, or protons, to destroy or damage cancer cells. It is often used after primary treatments like surgery or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells, hence the term "adjuvant," which means "helper" or "enhancer."

Overview

Adjuvant radiation therapy is typically used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and rectal cancer. The goal of this therapy is to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence by eliminating any remaining cancer cells in the body.

Procedure

The procedure for adjuvant radiation therapy usually involves a machine that directs the high-energy particles or waves at the body. The patient lies on a table while the machine moves around them, delivering the radiation. The treatment is usually given over several weeks, with the patient receiving a small dose of radiation each day.

Side Effects

Like all treatments, adjuvant radiation therapy can have side effects. These can include fatigue, skin changes, and other symptoms depending on the area of the body being treated. However, these side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with the help of the healthcare team.

Research and Developments

Research is ongoing to improve the effectiveness of adjuvant radiation therapy and to reduce its side effects. This includes studies on the optimal timing and dosage of radiation, as well as the development of new techniques to deliver radiation more precisely to the cancer cells.

See Also

• Radiation Therapy
• Cancer Treatment
• Chemotherapy
• Surgery

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