Journal of Cancer Research and Immuno-Oncology
Open Access

From X-Rays to Protons: Recent Advances in Cancer Radiation Therapy

Hans Inderson^{* *}Correspondence: Hans Inderson, Department of Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands, Email:

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Description

Radiation therapy, often referred to as radiotherapy, is a crucial component of cancer treatment. It is a medical procedure that uses high-energy beams of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth.

Radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment or in conjunction with other cancer treatment modalities, such as surgery or chemotherapy. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of radiation therapy, including its mechanisms, types, applications, side effects, and recent advancements.

Understanding radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a highly targeted and precise approach to treating cancer. It works by damaging the DNA within cancer cells, making it difficult for them to divide and grow. Healthy cells near the cancer site may also be affected, but they can repair themselves more efficiently, while cancer cells are less capable of doing so.

The goal of radiation therapy is to maximize the damage to cancer cells while minimizing the impact on healthy tissues [1].

Types of radiation therapy

External beam radiation therapy: In this method, a machine outside the body delivers radiation to the cancer site. The patient typically undergoes treatment sessions over several weeks. Different techniques, such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), allow for precise targeting of the tumor while sparing healthy tissues [2].

Internal radiation therapy (Brachytherapy): Internal radiation therapy involves placing a radioactive source directly inside or very close to the tumor. This method is often used for gynecological cancers, prostate cancer, and some head and neck cancers. Brachytherapy can deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues [3].

Applications of radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is used in various clinical settings and plays a critical role in the treatment of numerous types of cancer.

Curative treatment: Radiation therapy can be the primary treatment for localized cancers, such as early-stage breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. It aims to eliminate the cancer cells and achieve a cure.

Adjuvant therapy: After surgery to remove a tumor, adjuvant radiation therapy may be employed to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the area and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Palliative care: Radiation therapy is also used to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancers. It can alleviate pain, shrink tumors that obstruct airways or other vital structures, and reduce bleeding [4].

Neoadjuvant therapy: In some cases, radiation therapy is administered before surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove. This approach is often used for rectal cancer and locally advanced lung cancer.

Side effects of radiation therapy

Radiation therapy can cause side effects, which can vary depending on the type of radiation, the treatment duration, and the specific area being treated [5].

Fatigue: Many patients experience fatigue, especially as treatment progresses.

Skin changes: Skin in the treated area may become red, dry, and more sensitive. In some cases, radiation can cause peeling or blistering.

Hair Loss: Hair loss is common in the area receiving radiation.

Nausea and Vomiting: When radiation is administered to the abdominal area, nausea and vomiting may occur [6].

Difficulty swallowing or breathing: Radiation to the head and neck or chest regions may lead to difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and breathing problems.

Weakened immune system: Radiation therapy can suppress the immune system, making the patient more susceptible to infections [7].

Long-term effects: In some cases, radiation therapy may lead to long-term side effects, such as tissue scarring or damage to nearby organs [8]. These risks are carefully considered and minimized during treatment planning.

It's essential to communicate openly with the healthcare team about any side effects, as many can be managed or mitigated through supportive care measures. Radiation therapy is a continually evolving field, with ongoing advancements aimed at improving treatment efficacy and minimizing side effects.

Proton therapy: Proton therapy is a highly targeted form of radiation therapy that delivers radiation with precision, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues [9]. It is particularly useful for treating pediatric cancers and certain tumors near critical structures.

MRI-guided radiation therapy: Integrating Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) into radiation therapy enables real-time visualization of the tumor and surrounding tissues, allowing for highly accurate treatment delivery [10].

Immunotherapy combinations: Combining radiation therapy with immunotherapy has shown promise in enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Radiation therapy is a critical tool in the fight against cancer, serving as both a curative and palliative treatment option. It offers targeted and precise treatment while continually evolving to improve patient outcomes and reduce side effects. Understanding the different types of radiation therapy, its applications, and potential side effects is essential for patients and their families. As the field of radiation therapy continues to advance, it holds promise for further enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatment and improving the quality of life for those affected by this disease.

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