Radiation Therapy—External
(Ionizing Radiation; Radiotherapy)
by Editorial Staff And Contributors
Definition
Radiation therapy (RT) treats cancer and other diseases. It uses high-energy particles to break the DNA in the cancer cells. The cells can’t grow or divide when the DNA is damaged
There are 2 main types of RT:
- External—radiation is delivered by a machine that aims particles at the cells from outside the body
- Internal —radioactive materials are placed in the body near the cells
In certain cases, your doctor may advise using both. It is also used with surgery, chemotherapy, and therapy to spark the immune system to fight infection.
This fact sheet will focus on external RT.
Reasons for Procedure TOP
RT may be done to:
- Control the growth or spread of cancer
- Try to cure your cancer
- Reduce pain or other cancer symptoms
RT is used to treat:
- Solid tumors, such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck cancers
- Lymphomas and leukemia
Possible Complications TOP
External RT does not cause your body to become radioactive. It can cause side effects. The radiation harms healthy cells and cancer cells. Here are some common side effects:
- Fatigue
- Skin changes (redness, irritation)
- Reduced white blood cell count
- Hair loss
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Lack of hunger
Talk to your doctor about the side effects you may have.
Factors that may raise the risk of problems include:
- Previous RT
- If you have had systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, or dermatomyositis
A woman who is pregnant or could be pregnant should avoid being around radiation. It could harm the growing fetus.
What to Expect TOP
Prior to Procedure
You will go through a process called simulation. This takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours.
- You will lie on an exam table. A CT scan will be used to define the exact place(s) where the radiation will go. The site on your skin may be marked with colored ink. You may also have a small tattoo (or several) placed on your skin. This is helps aim the radiation beam.
- You may also be measured for devices like braces that will help you stay still during RT.
Description of the Procedure
You will be positioned on a table or chair. The therapist will leave the room and enter a control room. The machine will send radiation to the sites on your body. The most common sources of RT are x-rays, electron beams, and cobalt-60 gamma rays.
You must remain still. The therapist can see you on a screen. You can talk with the therapist if you feel sick.
External Radiation of a TumorCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
How Long Will It Take? TOP
It takes 1 to 5 minutes. You should allow at least 30 minutes for each session. Most RT lasts 2 to 8 weeks. They are given once a day, 5 days per week. In some cases, you may be treated twice a day or only 3 times a week. The number of sessions depends on many factors. Talk to your doctor about the schedule planned for you.
Will It Hurt? TOP
No
Average Hospital Stay TOP
There is no hospital stay. External radiation is typically done at an office visit.
Post-procedure Care TOP
During RT, your doctor will want to see you at least once a week. You may have routine blood tests to check your blood cells.
After RT is done, you will have fixed visits. The doctor will check your healing and make sure the RT worked as planned. Care may also mean further testing, medications, or rehabilitation.
Call Your Doctor TOP
Call your doctor if you have:
- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
- Diarrhea or loss of hunger
- Weight loss without a known cause
- Pain or burning with urination
- Frequent urination
- New or unusual swelling or lumps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain that doesn't go away with the medicines you were given
- Changes in skin, such as bruises, rashes, discharge, or bleeding
- Cough, problems breathing, or chest pain
- New or unexpected symptoms
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES:
American Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.org
Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America
https://www.radiologyinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Association of Radiologists
https://car.ca
Canadian Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.ca
REFERENCES:
External beam therapy (EBT). Radiological Society of North America Radiology Info website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=ebt. Accessed January 28, 2021.
Radiation. Oncolink, University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center website. Available at: https://www.oncolink.org/cancer-treatment/radiation. Accessed January 28, 2021.
Radiation therapy. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/treatment-types/radiation.html. Accessed January 28, 2021.
Radiation therapy for cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/radiation-therapy/radiation-fact-sheet. Accessed January 28, 2021.
Last reviewed January 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP
Last Updated: 1/28/2021