Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill or
shrink cancerous cells. When used in combination with
the other traditional mesothelioma treatments, radiation
therapy has been effective in increasing survival rates
for malignant mesothelioma patients. However, because
radiation therapy will destroy normal cells as well as
abnormal cells, doctors must carefully plan how to carry
out this type of treatment.
Radiation therapy can be administered in one of two
ways:
- External radiation refers to radiation that comes
from a machine outside the body
- Internal radiation is delivered by inserting radioisotopes
into the body at the location of the cancerous cells.
Side Effects
Side effects from radiation therapy vary from patient to
patient. The most common adverse responses to the treatment
include: fatigue, skin reactions, shortness of breath,
and low blood count levels. These issues should be discussed
with your doctor before radiation therapy begins.
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