Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Radiation therapy is a treatment method that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It is often used to treat breast cancer, either alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy.

Types of Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This type of radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to deliver radiation beams to the tumor site. EBRT is the most common type of radiation therapy used to treat breast cancer.
• Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): This type of radiation therapy involves placing a small amount of radioactive material directly into or near the tumor site. Brachytherapy can be used to treat early-stage breast cancer or as an additional treatment after lumpectomy.
• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): This type of radiation therapy uses advanced technology to deliver precise doses of radiation to the tumor site, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• 3D Conformal Radiation Therapy: This type of radiation therapy uses computer simulations to create a 3D picture of the tumor and surrounding tissue, allowing for more precise delivery of radiation beams.

How Radiation Therapy Works

Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. This ultimately leads to cell death. Radiation therapy can be used to:

• Treat breast cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body (early-stage breast cancer)
• Reduce the risk of recurrence after surgery (adjuvant radiation therapy)
• Shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant radiation therapy)
• Relieve symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or shortness of breath in advanced breast cancer

Radiation Therapy Schedule and Duration

The schedule and duration of radiation therapy for breast cancer vary depending on the individual case. Typically, radiation therapy is given:

• 5 days a week, Monday through Friday
• For 3-6 weeks (15-30 treatments)
• In daily doses of 1.8-2 Gy (180-200 cGy) per fraction

Possible Side Effects of Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Radiation therapy can cause side effects, which may include:

• Fatigue
• Skin changes (redness, itching, dryness)
• Swelling or bruising of the breast or arm
• Pain or discomfort in the breast or arm
• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
• Lymphedema (swelling of the arm or hand)
• Changes in breast appearance or texture

Long-Term Effects of Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Radiation therapy can also cause long-term effects, which may include:

• Fibrosis (scarring) of the breast tissue
• Changes in breast sensation or nipple sensitivity
• Increased risk of heart disease or lung problems
• Secondary cancers (rare)

Follow-Up Care After Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

After completing radiation therapy, regular follow-up care is essential to monitor the breast cancer and address any potential side effects. This may include:

• Regular mammograms and clinical exams
• Monitoring for signs of recurrence or metastasis
• Managing side effects and addressing concerns

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is radiation therapy for breast cancer?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells in the breast.

Why is radiation therapy used for breast cancer?
To treat and prevent recurrence of breast cancer, often after surgery.

What types of radiation therapy are used for breast cancer?
External beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) may be used.

How long does radiation therapy for breast cancer typically last?
Typically 3-6 weeks, with daily sessions, Monday through Friday.

Are there side effects from radiation therapy for breast cancer?
Possible side effects include fatigue, skin changes, and breast swelling.

Can radiation therapy be used for all stages of breast cancer?
Radiation therapy may be used for early-stage and locally advanced breast cancer.

Is radiation therapy always necessary after breast cancer surgery?
Not always, depends on individual case and tumor characteristics.

How is the radiation dose determined for breast cancer treatment?
The radiation dose is tailored to each patient based on tumor size, location, and type.

Can radiation therapy be combined with other treatments for breast cancer?
Yes, often combined with surgery, chemotherapy, and/or hormone therapy.

Are there any long-term risks associated with radiation therapy for breast cancer?
Possible long-term risks include heart problems, lung disease, and secondary cancers.