विवरण
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.
सारांश
- Dr. Barbara discussed the evolution of breast cancer radiation oncology, emphasizing the shift from extensive treatments to more focused approaches. She highlighted that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and stressed the importance of early detection and treatment. Radiation therapy is crucial for breast conservation surgery, advanced cases with positive lymph nodes, and symptomatic relief.
- Initially, radical mastectomies were common, but later modified to reduce morbidity. Breast-conserving surgeries combined with radiation therapy became prevalent to preserve psychological well-being. Chemotherapy was introduced to target potential spread, and personalized medicine approaches now determine which patients benefit most from specific treatments and screenings.
- Radiation treatment durations have significantly shortened. Past protocols involved five weeks of radiation, which evolved to three weeks and further reduced to one week (five days). Studies have demonstrated that these shorter durations maintain equivalent efficacy with potentially fewer side effects.
- Advanced radiation techniques minimize damage to surrounding organs. Conventional radiation can expose the heart to high doses, leading to cardiac issues. Modern techniques like 3D conformal radiation and IMRT better target the tumor while sparing the heart and lungs. Proton therapy offers even more precise targeting with less radiation to surrounding tissues.
- Respiratory-gated radiation techniques also minimize heart exposure. Taking deep breaths during radiation moves the heart away from the treatment area. Radiation to lymph nodes (axilla, supraclavicular, and internal mammary) is necessary when surgery does not fully dissect them, and proper radiation reduces the chances of lymphedema.
- The overall conclusion is that less radiation is as effective as more with advanced techniques. Shortened radiation durations are safe, equally effective, reduce side effects, and conserve resources by allowing working women and others to complete treatment more quickly.
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