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Breast cancer and radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality for breast cancer, often used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy. It involves the targeted use of high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy or damage cancer cells in the breast and nearby lymph nodes. Radiation therapy may be recommended after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to reduce the risk of local recurrence. For some patients, radiation may also be indicated after a mastectomy, depending on factors like tumor size, lymph node involvement, and cancer stage. External beam radiation is the most common type of radiation therapy for breast cancer, administered over several weeks with daily sessions. Radiation can lead to side effects such as skin redness, fatigue, and breast discomfort, but these are typically temporary and manageable. Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is an option for select patients and involves a shorter course of focused radiation therapy.
About the Speaker
Dr. Bhavin Visariya
Radiation Oncologist, HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre
Upcoming Case Discussions
Acne: Disorders and Treatment Approaches
Acne is a common dermatological condition caused by clogged pores, excess sebum production, bacterial growth, and inflammation. It can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, or cysts, often leading to scarring if untreated. Various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, stress, and genetics, influence its severity. Treatment approaches range from topical and oral medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapy, to advanced procedures like chemical peels and laser therapy. A personalized skincare regimen, along with lifestyle modifications, plays a crucial role in managing and preventing acne.
Molecular and Genetic studies in Gynaecological Malignancies
Molecular and genetic studies in gynecological malignancies have revolutionized diagnostics, prognostics, and targeted therapies. Advances in genomic sequencing have identified key mutations in ovarian (BRCA1/2, TP53), endometrial (PTEN, MSI), and cervical cancers (HPV integration, PIK3CA). These findings aid in precision medicine, guiding individualized treatments like PARP inhibitors for BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and miRNA regulation, further influence tumor progression and therapeutic response. Emerging technologies like liquid biopsies and multi-omics approaches enhance early detection and monitoring. Understanding these molecular pathways is crucial for developing novel therapies and improving survival outcomes in gynecological malignancies.
Gallstone Disease & Cholecystitis: When to Operate?
iGallstone disease and cholecystitis are common conditions requiring careful evaluation to determine the need for surgery. Symptomatic gallstones causing recurrent pain, nausea, or complications like cholecystitis often necessitate cholecystectomy. Acute cholecystitis, characterized by inflammation, fever, and right upper quadrant pain, typically requires early surgical intervention to prevent complications like perforation or sepsis. In high-risk patients, conservative management with antibiotics and drainage may be considered. Elective surgery is recommended for asymptomatic patients with high-risk factors, such as large gallstones or gallbladder polyps, to prevent future complications.
AI in Enhancing Emergency Care
AI is revolutionizing emergency care by enabling faster, more accurate decision-making. It helps triage patients efficiently, analyze medical data in real-time, and predict outcomes based on historical data, which can prioritize critical cases. AI-powered tools, like diagnostic imaging analysis and predictive algorithms, assist doctors in identifying conditions such as strokes or heart attacks earlier, improving survival rates. Additionally, AI enhances resource allocation and staff management in emergency departments, optimizing response times and reducing workload for healthcare providers.
Management of Postoperative Pain: Best Practices for GP’s
Effective management of postoperative pain is crucial for promoting recovery and preventing complications. General practitioners should start by assessing pain severity using appropriate scales, then tailor the treatment plan based on the patient's medical history and the type of surgery. A combination of pharmacological approaches, such as non-opioid analgesics (e.g., NSAIDs) and opioids when necessary, should be used to minimize pain while reducing the risk of addiction. Multimodal strategies, including physical therapy and non-pharmacological techniques like cold therapy or mindfulness, can further enhance pain relief. Close follow-up is essential to adjust the treatment as needed and ensure the patient's pain is well-controlled.