Internal Radiation Therapy

• Internal Radiation Therapy (brachytherapy) delivers radiation directly inside the body to target cancer cells.
• It works by placing radioactive sources near or within the tumor, allowing for a high dose of radiation while sparing healthy tissue.
• Benefits include precise targeting, shorter treatment times, and potentially fewer side effects compared to external beam radiation.
• Common side effects are localized to the treated area and can include fatigue, pain, or temporary skin irritation.
• This therapy is a crucial option for treating various cancers, often used alone or in combination with other treatments.

What is Internal Radiation Therapy?

Internal Radiation Therapy, commonly known as brachytherapy, is a specialized cancer treatment involving the precise placement of radioactive sources directly inside or very close to a tumor. This method ensures a concentrated dose of radiation reaches the cancerous cells, significantly reducing exposure to adjacent healthy tissues and organs. Depending on the cancer type and treatment plan, these radioactive sources can be temporary or permanent, making it a highly adaptable and precise tool in oncology for localized cancers.

How Internal Radiation Therapy Works and Its Benefits

Internal Radiation Therapy works by implanting small, sealed radioactive sources (such as seeds, wires, or capsules) directly into or near the tumor. The radiation emitted travels only a short distance, focusing its destructive energy on cancer cells while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy tissue. This targeted delivery is a primary advantage over external beam radiation therapy, which irradiates from outside the body.

The Benefits of internal radiation therapy are substantial:

• Precise Targeting: Delivers high-dose radiation directly to the tumor, maximizing cancer cell destruction and sparing healthy organs.
• Shorter Treatment: Often requires fewer sessions or a shorter overall duration compared to external beam radiation.
• Reduced Systemic Side Effects: Localized radiation typically results in fewer widespread adverse reactions.
• Effective Local Control: High localized dosing can lead to excellent control rates for specific cancers.

According to the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), brachytherapy is a highly effective treatment option for many localized cancers, contributing to excellent outcomes and quality of life for patients.

Potential Side Effects of Internal Radiation Therapy

While designed for precision, patients undergoing Internal radiation therapy side effects may experience localized adverse reactions. These vary based on the cancer type, radiation dose, and individual health. Common side effects often include:

• Fatigue: A general feeling of tiredness.
• Localized Pain/Discomfort: Tenderness, swelling, or pain in the treated area.
• Skin Irritation: Redness, dryness, or peeling of skin in the treatment zone.
• Urinary/Bowel Changes: Increased frequency, urgency, or discomfort if treatment is near the bladder or rectum.

Most side effects are temporary, resolving within weeks or months post-treatment. Healthcare providers closely monitor patients and offer management strategies to alleviate discomfort, ensuring optimal quality of life. Prompt communication of any new or worsening symptoms to the medical team is crucial.