|
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer
cells. It is not usually part of the main treatment for people with
ALL, but it is used in certain situations.
External beam radiation therapy, in which a machine delivers a
beam of radiation to a specific part of the body, is the type of
radiation used most often for ALL. Before your treatment starts, the
radiation team will take careful measurements to determine the correct
angles for aiming the radiation beams and the proper dose of radiation.
Radiation therapy is much like getting an x-ray, but the radiation is
more intense. The procedure itself is painless. Each treatment lasts
only a few minutes, although the setup time -- getting you into place
for treatment -- usually takes longer.
There are a few instances in which radiation therapy may be
used to help treat leukemia:
- Radiation is sometimes used to treat leukemia that has
spread to the brain and spinal fluid or to the testicles.
- Radiation is used (rarely) to help shrink a tumor if it is
pressing on the trachea (windpipe) and causing breathing problems. But
chemotherapy is often used instead, as it may work more quickly.
- Radiation can also be used to reduce pain in an area of
bone that is invaded by leukemia, if chemotherapy hasn't helped.
The possible side effects of radiation therapy depend on where
the radiation is aimed. Sunburn-like skin changes in the treated area
are possible. Radiation to the abdomen can sometimes cause nausea,
vomiting, or diarrhea. For radiation that includes large parts of the
body, the effects may include fatigue and an increased risk of
infection.
Last Medical Review: 07/23/2009
Last Revised: 07/23/2009
|
