Radiation therapy

Definition

Radiation therapy is a medical treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It leverages the properties of radioisotopes to damage the DNA of malignant cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radiation therapy often uses radioisotopes like Cobalt-60 and Iodine-131.
2. The process involves ionizing radiation, which can remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions.
3. External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy are two main types of radiation therapy.
4. Radiation can be targeted precisely to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
5. Side effects can include skin irritation, fatigue, and in some cases, secondary cancers.

Review Questions

• What are two common radioisotopes used in radiation therapy?
• How does ionizing radiation work in the context of radiation therapy?
• What is the difference between external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy?

Related terms

Radioisotope: An isotope of an element that emits radiation during its decay to a stable form.

Ionizing Radiation:

Type of energy released by atoms in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles that can ionize atoms or molecules by detaching electrons.

Brachytherapy:

A type of radiation therapy where a radioactive source is placed inside or next to the area requiring treatment.