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Radiation therapy - Radiotherapy

Radiation therapy (RT)

Radiotherapy, also known as electrotherapy or radiation therapy, is divided into external beam radiation therapy and internal beam radiation therapy, and is a common treatment for cancer. In Hong Kong, radiotherapy services are very widespread, and the technology is highly advanced.

Principles and Categories of Radiotherapy

External beam radiation therapy

External beam radiation therapy (EMB) uses high-energy radiation generated by a linear accelerator to destroy the DNA of cancer cells, rendering them unable to divide, grow, and spread. Each treatment session lasts approximately 30 minutes and is similar to an X-ray, causing no pain or discomfort to the patient. Hong Kong's ERB technology is highly advanced; patients leave the treatment room without any residual radiation, so there is no need to worry about it affecting the health of those around them. Currently, ERB services are available in Hong Kong's public and private hospitals and ERB centers.

Internal radiation therapy

Internal radiation therapy involves directly placing radioactive material into the body near the tumor to kill cancer cells. It is suitable for certain cancers, such as liver cancer, prostate cancer, and cervical cancer.

Scope of application of radiotherapy

Radiation therapy is a local treatment and can be used as a radical treatment, such as for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, where it can be used alone to achieve a cure. Radiation therapy can also be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to consolidate the therapeutic effect. In addition, radiation therapy can be used as palliative treatment to alleviate patient discomfort or pain, such as bone pain caused by bone metastases.

Side effects of radiation therapy

During radiation therapy, normal cells may be damaged simultaneously. Depending on the treatment site and the dose of radiation, possible side effects include:

(a) Skin reaction

Depending on the radiation dose, the skin in the area receiving electrotherapy may become dry, red, itchy, and darker, and may even peel and become painful.

Treatment: Pay attention to sun protection and moisturizing, avoid vigorous rubbing of the skin, and use moisturizing cream to protect the skin when necessary.

(b) Fatigue

During radiation therapy, the body uses some energy to repair damage to normal tissues, and patients may feel tired.

Treatment: Get plenty of rest and supplement your nutrition.

(c) Oral response

Head and neck cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy have an increased chance of developing tooth decay and oral mucositis.

Treatment: Have your teeth checked by a dentist before starting treatment. If you have oral mucositis, rinse your mouth with a mild saline solution or a dentist-prescribed mouthwash, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and eat soft, easily swallowed foods.

(d) Gastrointestinal reactions

If the irradiation site involves the stomach, it may cause stomach pain; electrotherapy to the abdomen and pelvis may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Treatment: The condition is usually not serious and can often be relieved by adjusting diet or taking medication prescribed by a doctor.

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FAQ

  1. Will I feel pain during radiation therapy? Will the radiation remain in my body?

    Patients usually do not feel pain or discomfort during radiation therapy, and there is no residual radiation on their bodies after the treatment, similar to taking an X-ray.

  2. What are the possible side effects of radiation therapy?

    Common side effects of radiation therapy include dry skin, fatigue, oral discomfort, and gastrointestinal upset. Doctors will provide appropriate care instructions based on the treatment site to minimize the side effects experienced by patients.

  3. Which cancers are suitable for radiation therapy?

    Radiation therapy is widely used in Hong Kong and is applicable to a variety of cancers, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and cervical cancer. It can be used for radical treatment, preoperative tumor shrinkage, or postoperative consolidation of therapeutic effects.

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