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Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer
cells. Although most cases of carcinoid tumor are cured by surgery
alone, radiation therapy may be an option for those who cannot undergo
surgery.
External-beam
radiation therapy is the type of radiation used most often
for most types of gastrointestinal cancer. It is like having a regular
x-ray except it takes longer and involves much higher amounts of
radiation. Patients typically have treatments for 5 days a week for
several weeks.
Unfortunately, radiation therapy often is not very effective
against most gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors. It is used primarily to
treat pain from carcinoid tumors that have spread to the bones or other
parts of the body.
The main side effects of gastrointestinal radiation therapy
are fatigue (tiredness), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mild
temporary, sunburn-like skin changes.
For more information on radiation therapy, see the American
Cancer Society document, Understanding
Radiation Therapy: A Guide for Patients and Families.
Revised: 05/14/2007
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