Radiation Oncology Expertises

    • What are Brain Tumors?

      Brain tumors refer to masses or growths of abnormal cells that occur within the brain. The most common types of brain tumors include glioblastoma, astrocytoma, meningioma, and oligodendroglioma.

      Symptoms of Brain Tumors

    • The primary symptoms of brain tumors include severe headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, depending on the location of the tumor, patients may experience weakness on one side of the body, numbness, walking difficulties, speech difficulties, vision loss, memory problems, difficulty speaking, and balance issues.

      Diagnosis of Brain Tumors

      Imaging methods are frequently the first step in diagnosing brain tumors. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the standard imaging technique used. After identifying the location of the tumor, a definitive diagnosis can be made through stereotactic biopsy or excisional biopsy (surgical removal of the tumor).

      Treatment Options for Brain Tumors

      The treatment of brain tumors primarily uses three methods: surgery (removal of the tumor through surgery), chemotherapy (drug therapy), and radiotherapy (radiation therapy). Surgery is generally the first method employed, but in cases where surgery cannot be performed, or in patients who have undergone surgery, radiotherapy is used to treat any remaining microscopic disease.


      Radiotherapy in Brain Tumors

      Radiotherapy is applied in a painless manner to the patient in the same position, following treatment planning. Before radiotherapy, patients are often fitted with a thermoplastic mask to stabilize them during treatment. Patients do not emit radiation after radiotherapy. Radiotherapy is conducted five days a week, and each session typically lasts about 4-5 minutes. However, the total time including positioning the patient and setting up the treatment area may take around 15-20 minutes. The duration of the treatment will be determined by your doctor. Typically, radiotherapy for brain tumors lasts between 5-6 weeks. Patients are required to continue treatment regularly, unless there are urgent circumstances.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      During brain radiotherapy, patients may sometimes experience fatigue, lethargy, headaches, or nausea. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

    • What is Bladder Cancer?

      Bladder cancer originates in the cells of the bladder. The most frequent type is transitional cell carcinoma, which begins in the urothelial cells lining the bladder. It is most commonly diagnosed in older adults and is more prevalent in men than women.

    • Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer

    • Major risk factors include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals used in dyeing industries, chronic bladder inflammation, previous cancer treatment involving radiation, and a diet high in processed meats.

      Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

    • Symptoms typically include blood in the urine (hematuria), frequent urination, painful urination, pelvic pain, and back pain.

      Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer

    • Diagnosis often involves urine tests, cystoscopy (where a scope is inserted into the bladder), and imaging tests like CT scans. A biopsy may be performed during cystoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

      Treatment Options for Bladder Cancer

    • Treatment can include surgery, intravesical therapy (where therapy is put directly into the bladder), chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of cancer, with early-stage cancers often treated with conservative methods like transurethral resection.


    • Role of Radiotherapy in Bladder Cancer

    • Radiotherapy is primarily used to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer. It may be used alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. For advanced stages, radiotherapy helps to control symptoms and reduce tumor burden.


    • How is Radiotherapy Administered?

    • Radiotherapy is given externally and targets the pelvic area to destroy cancer cells. Treatments are usually scheduled five days a week for 5-6 weeks, with each session lasting only a few minutes.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

    • Common side effects include fatigue, skin irritation in the treatment area, irritation of the bladder, frequent urination, and discomfort during urination. Long-term side effects may include changes in bladder capacity and function. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

  • What is Breast Cancer?

    Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It starts in the cells of the breast as a group of cancer cells that can invade surrounding tissues or spread to other areas of the body.

    Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

    The main risk factors for breast cancer include gender (being a woman), age (increasing age), a family history of breast cancer, genetics, early menstruation, late or no pregnancy, late menopause, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity.

    Symptoms of Breast Cancer

    Common signs of breast cancer include a lump in the breast, a change in breast shape, dimpling of the skin, fluid coming from the nipple, a newly inverted nipple, or a red or scaly patch of skin.

    Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

    Breast cancer diagnoses often involve mammography to detect breast lumps or abnormalities. Ultrasound or MRI may be used for further evaluation. A biopsy confirms the diagnosis by examining cells from a suspicious area.

    Treatment Options for Breast Cancer

    Treatment options vary based on the stage and type of the cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery can be lumpectomy or mastectomy; chemotherapy might be used before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) surgery.

    Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer

    Radiotherapy is commonly used after breast-conserving surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. For patients undergoing mastectomy, radiotherapy is applied if there is a high risk of recurrence. It is directed at the chest wall and surrounding areas to minimize the chance of cancer recurrence. Treatment is usually administered five days a week for 3-6 weeks, depending on the total dose required. The daily treatment duration averages between 5-20 minutes. Irradiated fields encompass remaining breast tissue or chest wall and lymph node areas if indicated.

    Side Effects of Radiotherapy

    Common side effects include skin irritation at the radiation site, fatigue, breast or chest pain, and lymphedema (swelling of the arm). Long-term effects may include heart or lung damage if these areas are in the radiation field, and rare instances of secondary cancers. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

      • What is Cervical Cancer?

        Cervical cancer arises from the cells lining the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

        Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer
      • Risk factors include HPV infection, smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of oral contraceptives, having multiple full-term pregnancies, and early sexual activity.

      • Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
      • Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause), pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse.

      • Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
      • Diagnosis is often made through screening tests like the Pap smear and HPV testing. If abnormalities are found, a colposcopy and biopsy are performed to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, and PET scans help in staging the cancer.
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      • Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer

      • Treatment typically includes surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Early-stage cervical cancer may be treated with surgery alone, while advanced stages often require a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.


      • Radiotherapy in Cervical Cancer

      • Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be administered externally (external beam radiotherapy) or internally (brachytherapy). Radiotherapy is a primary treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer and is often combined with chemotherapy.

      • Radiotherapy for cervical cancer usually involves daily sessions over several weeks. External beam radiotherapy targets the tumor and surrounding tissues, while brachytherapy delivers radiation directly to the cervix through the vaginal canal.

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      • Side effects may include fatigue, skin changes in the treated area, diarrhea, urinary problems, and vaginal irritation. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends. Long-term side effects can include changes in bowel and bladder function and vaginal stenosis.

        • What is Esophageal Cancer?

          Esophageal cancer begins in the cells of the esophagus, the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. This type of cancer can occur anywhere along the esophagus and is more common in men than women. There are two main types: squamous cell carcinoma, which usually occurs in the upper and middle part of the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma, which occurs in the lower part of the esophagus, often associated with a condition known as Barrett's esophagus.

          Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer

          Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, chronic heartburn or acid reflux, and Barrett's esophagus. Obesity and poor diet can also increase the risk.

          Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

          Symptoms typically include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), weight loss, persistent indigestion or heartburn, and sometimes pain or discomfort in the throat or back.

          Diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer

          Diagnosis often involves an endoscopy to visually examine the esophagus and collect a tissue sample (biopsy) for testing. Imaging tests like CT scans and PET scans are also used to determine the extent of the disease.

          Treatment Options for Esophageal Cancer

          Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. In early stages, surgery might involve removal of part or all of the esophagus. In more advanced cases, a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy might be used to shrink the tumor before surgery or as the main treatment if surgery is not an option.

          Role of Radiotherapy in Esophageal Cancer

          Radiotherapy is particularly important for controlling the spread of esophageal cancer and alleviating symptoms such as difficulty swallowing. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, or as a standalone treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

          Side Effects of Radiotherapy

          Common side effects include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and changes in the skin where the radiation is targeted. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends. Long-term effects may include narrowing of the esophagus, which might require further medical procedures to manage.

    • What is Gastric Cancer?

      Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, develops from the lining of the stomach. It is the fourth most common cancer worldwide. The most common type is adenocarcinoma, accounting for about 95% of cases. Other types include squamous cell carcinoma, gastric lymphoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST).

      Risk Factors for Gastric Cancer

      Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, dietary factors (such as high intake of smoked, salted, and pickled foods), smoking, alcohol use, genetic predisposition, and certain pre-existing stomach conditions.

      Symptoms of Gastric Cancer

      Gastric cancer often progresses silently in the early stages, but symptoms in advanced stages include indigestion, bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, and feeling full after eating small amounts of food.

      Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer

      Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Common diagnostic methods include endoscopy with biopsy, where suspicious areas of the stomach are examined and sampled. Advanced imaging techniques such as PET and MRI scans are used to determine the extent and spread of the disease.

      Treatment Options for Gastric Cancer

      Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery is often the primary treatment, aiming to remove part or all of the stomach and surrounding lymph nodes. Chemotherapy may be administered before or after surgery to reduce tumor size or eliminate remaining cancer cells. Radiotherapy is used in conjunction with chemotherapy to target residual tumor cells post-surgery.

      Role of Radiotherapy in Gastric Cancer

      Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It is often used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. In cases where surgery is not possible, radiotherapy may be used to shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms.

      How is Radiotherapy Administered?

      Radiotherapy for gastric cancer is typically given five days a week for about 5-6 weeks. Each session lasts between 5-15 minutes. The total duration of treatment is decided by your doctor. Patients can continue their daily activities after treatment as they do not become radioactive.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      Side effects during radiotherapy can include fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, constipation, and diarrhea. These are generally managed symptomatically and tend to resolve after treatment ends.

      • What is Lymphoma?

        Lymphomas are cancers that originate in the lymphatic system, a part of the body's immune system. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

        Risk Factors for Lymphomas

        Risk factors for lymphomas include a weakened immune system, certain infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus or Helicobacter pylori), family history of lymphoma, and exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.

        Symptoms of Lymphomas

        Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and itching. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the lymphoma.

        Diagnosis of Lymphomas

        Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies (such as CT, MRI, or PET scans), and a biopsy of the affected lymph nodes or other tissues.

        Treatment Options for Lymphomas

        Treatment options depend on the type and stage of the lymphoma and may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and sometimes stem cell transplantation.

        Role of Radiotherapy in Lymphomas

        Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy, particularly for early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma and certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

        How is Radiotherapy Administered?

        Radiotherapy is usually administered externally, targeting the affected lymph nodes and surrounding areas. The treatment schedule typically involves sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting a few minutes.

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy

        Side effects can include fatigue, skin irritation in the treatment area, nausea, and temporary hair loss in the treated area. Long-term effects may include changes in the function of nearby organs and an increased risk of secondary cancers.

      • What is Lung Cancer?

        Lung cancer arises from the uncontrolled proliferation of normal lung tissue cells, forming tumors within the lungs. It is a prevalent type of cancer and leads in cancer-related deaths. The primary risk factor for lung cancer is smoking, although 15% of lung cancer cases occur in individuals who have never smoked.

        Diagnosis of Lung Cancer

        The most common symptoms include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, sudden weight loss, bloody sputum, and recurrent lung infections. Clinical findings and imaging tests lead to a suspicion of lung cancer, with a biopsy performed for diagnosis. Lung cancer is divided into two main types: Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), with NSCLC further subdivided into adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

        Treatment Options for Lung Cancer

        Selecting the appropriate treatment for lung cancer depends on determining the type of cancer cells and the stage of the cancer. A multidisciplinary approach is required, with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy used alone or in combination.

        How is Radiotherapy Administered in Lung Cancer?

        Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. Advances in Radiation Oncology have enabled high doses of radiation to be targeted at the tumor while protecting surrounding organs. Radiotherapy for lung cancer is typically administered five days a week for about 5-6 weeks. The treatment duration depends on the doctor's decision, with daily treatment sessions lasting between 5-20 minutes. Patients must continue treatment regularly, unless there are urgent reasons not to. After receiving treatment, pat...

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy in Lung Cancer

        Side effects of radiotherapy can include fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, fever, skin redness, and difficulty swallowing, which typically start in the second week of treatment and continue for 2-3 weeks after treatment ends. Long-term effects such as chronic dry cough and breathing difficulties may develop months after radiotherapy and should be reported to a doctor.

     

      • What is Pancreatic Cancer?

        Pancreatic cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the pancreas, a vital organ behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and hormone production. The disease is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis.

        Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

        The symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often subtle and may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, loss of appetite, weight loss, depression, and new-onset diabetes.

        Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer

        Diagnosing pancreatic cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Blood tests and a biopsy, where a sample of pancreatic tissue is examined under a microscope, are also commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis.

        Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer

        Treatment for pancreatic cancer may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery is often considered if the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage and appears to be removable. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

        Role of Radiotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer

        Radiotherapy is used primarily to control the growth of pancreatic cancer, especially in cases where the tumor cannot be surgically removed. It may also be used to relieve symptoms such as pain. The treatment involves directing high-energy beams at the pancreatic tumor to kill cancer cells.

        How is Radiotherapy Administered?

        Radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer is typically given in sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting only a few minutes. The exact schedule and duration of radiotherapy depend on the individual treatment plan developed by the oncology team.

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy

        Common side effects of radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer include fatigue, skin changes at the treatment site, nausea, and changes in digestive patterns. Long-term side effects may include changes to the surrounding organs such as the stomach and intestines, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

      • Before starting treatment, inform your physician about any medications you are using and any allergies you may have. You should consult your physician before using any vitamins, supplements, or herbal preparations. Avoid using tobacco and alcohol during the treatment process. You may experience a decrease in appetite during radiotherapy; it is important to consume protein-rich foods as it helps in quick recovery from side effects. . To maintain a balanced and healthy diet to prevent weight loss. If you experience a loss of appetite, consider consulting a dietitian. It is advised to avoid spicy and acidic foods. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting cotton clothing. As your skin may become sensitive during radiotherapy, avoid using lotions, perfumes, deodorants, and other cosmetic products. Avoid shaving, scrubbing, or any other skin-irritating activities. Do not neglect to protect yourself from the sun. Do not hesitate to seek psychological support to cope with feelings of depression and loneliness.

     

      • What is Pancreatic Cancer?

        Pancreatic cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the pancreas, a vital organ behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and hormone production. The disease is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis.

        Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

        The symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often subtle and may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, loss of appetite, weight loss, depression, and new-onset diabetes.

        Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer

        Diagnosing pancreatic cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Blood tests and a biopsy, where a sample of pancreatic tissue is examined under a microscope, are also commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis.

        Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer

        Treatment for pancreatic cancer may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery is often considered if the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage and appears to be removable. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

        Role of Radiotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer

        Radiotherapy is used primarily to control the growth of pancreatic cancer, especially in cases where the tumor cannot be surgically removed. It may also be used to relieve symptoms such as pain. The treatment involves directing high-energy beams at the pancreatic tumor to kill cancer cells.

        How is Radiotherapy Administered?

        Radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer is typically given in sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting only a few minutes. The exact schedule and duration of radiotherapy depend on the individual treatment plan developed by the oncology team.

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy

        Common side effects of radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer include fatigue, skin changes at the treatment site, nausea, and changes in digestive patterns. Long-term side effects may include changes to the surrounding organs such as the stomach and intestines, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

      • What is Pediatric Cancer?

        Pediatric cancer refers to a variety of cancers that occur in children. The most common types include leukemias, brain tumors, neuroblastomas, and Wilms tumors. These cancers can behave very differently from adult cancers and often require specific treatment protocols.

        Risk Factors for Pediatric Cancer

        While the exact causes of most pediatric cancers remain unknown, genetic factors and environmental exposures may contribute. Unlike adult cancers, lifestyle factors play a minimal role in the development of childhood cancers.

        Symptoms of Pediatric Cancer

        Symptoms vary widely depending on the type of cancer but can include unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, and bone pain. Neurological symptoms might indicate brain tumors, while abdominal swelling may suggest kidney or liver tumors.

        Diagnosis of Pediatric Cancer

        Diagnosis often involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsies. Advanced imaging like MRI and CT scans are commonly used to define the extent of cancer before starting treatment.

        Treatment Options for Pediatric Cancer

        Treatment generally includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, tailored to the type and stage of cancer. Pediatric oncology emphasizes minimizing long-term side effects while effectively treating the cancer.

        Role of Radiotherapy in Pediatric Cancer

        Radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells with high-energy rays. While it is an effective treatment, careful consideration is given to the potential long-term effects on a child's developing body. Therefore, its use is carefully planned and often combined with other treatments to minimize exposure to healthy tissues.

        How is Radiotherapy Administered?

        Radiotherapy in pediatric cases is carefully targeted to protect growing bodies and reduce side effects. Techniques such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and proton therapy are often used to provide precise treatment focused on the cancer cells while sparing normal tissues.

        Side Effects of Radiotherapy

        The side effects in children can include skin irritation, fatigue, and changes in growth and development depending on the area treated. Long-term monitoring is essential to manage and address any late effects of treatment, which can include impacts on growth, hormonal development, and learning.

  • What is Prostate Cancer?

    Prostate cancer involves the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and affects millions annually. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, with over 85% of new cases diagnosed in men over the age of 60.

    Prostate Cancer Diagnosis

    In its early stages, prostate cancer may not show any signs or symptoms. The most commonly used marker for diagnosis is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. If prostate cancer is suspected based on physical examinations, lab tests, and imaging studies (Gallium-68 PSMA PET-CT, pelvic MRI), a biopsy is performed to make a diagnosis. Like other cancers, staging of prostate cancer involves determining the size of the tumor, whether lymph nodes are involved, and whether the cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.

    Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

    Treatment for prostate cancer can include surgery (radical prostatectomy), radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and risk category of the disease. The technique of radical prostatectomy has increasingly been performed using laparoscopic and robotic methods in recent years. Radiotherapy, similar to surgical methods, is a local treatment method; it shows its effects and side effects in the area applied.
    In advanced stages of prostate cancer, where local treatment methods are insufficient, drug therapies are preferred. Since the prostate tissue is sensitive to testosterone, drugs that suppress the effect of testosterone (hormone therapy) are used in this stage of the disease, and chemotherapy is administered to patients who do not respond to hormone therapy or who have developed resistance.

    Radiotherapy in Prostate Cancer

    Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays, like X-rays, to kill cancer cells. With advancements in Radiation Oncology, high doses of radiation can be applied to the tumor area while protecting adjacent organs.
    Radiotherapy in prostate cancer is usually administered five days a week for about 7-8 weeks. The duration of treatment is decided by your physician. The daily treatment duration averages between 5-20 minutes. Patients are expected to empty their bowels and fill their bladders before the treatment. Patients need to continue treatment regularly unless there are urgent reasons not to. Patients can continue with their daily lives after treatment, as they do not emit radiation and do not need to be isolated from others.

    Side Effects of Radiotherapy in Prostate Cancer

    The side effects of radiotherapy can include skin irritation, fatigue, erectile dysfunction (impotence), incontinence (inability to control urine), frequent urination, hematuria, diarrhea, and hemorrhoidal complaints. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

    • What is Rectal Cancer?

      The rectum is a 12-15 cm long organ that starts at the end of the large intestine. Following the rectum, the digestive system opens to the outside through the anal canal and anus, and waste is expelled. Rectal cancer refers to the uncontrolled multiplication of cells in the rectum. The risk factors for rectal cancer include obesity, consumption of red meat, alcohol use, smoking, advanced age, a family history of similar cancers, and having conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.

      How is Rectal Cancer Diagnosed?

      Symptoms of rectal cancer can include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation that persist for a period of time, a feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement, blood or darkening in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and constant fatigue. The definitive method of diagnosis for rectal cancer is a biopsy taken during a colonoscopy. Staging and treatment options are often assessed using F-18 FDG PET-CT and MRI options. For screening of rectal cancer, the “fecal occult blood test” is commonly used.

      Treatment Options for Rectal Cancer

      The treatment of rectal cancer involves a multidisciplinary approach including radiation oncology, general surgery, and medical oncology. Early-stage rectal cancers can be treated with surgery alone, but more advanced stages often involve preoperative radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy followed by surgery.

      How is Radiotherapy Administered in Rectal Cancer?

      Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells. It can be applied before surgery to reduce the tumor size, making it easier to remove, or after surgery to prevent recurrence.
      Radiotherapy in rectal cancer is typically administered five days a week for about 5-6 weeks. The daily treatment durations average between 5-20 minutes. Patients are expected to empty their bowels and fill their bladders before the treatment. Patients can continue with their daily lives after treatment, as they do not emit radiation and do not need to be isolated from others.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer

      During the radiotherapy, patients may experience bowel irregularities (constipation or diarrhea), hemorrhoidal complaints, burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and lethargy. . These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically and generally decrease and disappear after the end of the treatment.

 

    • What is Skin Cancer?

      Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and originates from the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). The most frequently seen subtype is basal cell carcinoma, followed by squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, derived from pigment-producing cells, is the third subtype and is more aggressive than the others.

      Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
      Risk factors for skin cancer include exposure to UV radiation from sunlight or tanning beds, light skin color, the presence of non-healing wounds or ulcers, genetic syndromes and predispositions, a weakened immune system, and diseases such as Bowen's disease and actinic keratosis.

      Symptoms of Skin Cancer
      Common symptoms of skin cancer include the appearance of a new spot or lesion on the skin, a firm red-brown nodule, a rough patch that can develop into an open sore on sun-exposed areas such as the lips and nose, and changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing lesion.

      Diagnosis of Skin Cancer
      When an abnormal skin structure is observed, a medical examination is recommended. Diagnostic criteria include biopsy (taking a tissue sample from the lesion for pathological examination), dermatological examination, and imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans.

      Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

      Treatment depends on the depth of the lesion. Surgical methods are preferred for deeper lesions, while photodynamic therapy, cryotherapy, and topical treatments are used for superficial lesions.

      Role of Radiotherapy in Skin Cancer

      Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to inactivate cancer cells. It can be indicated post-surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence, or pre-surgery to reduce the size of the tumor. Two types of radiotherapy used are external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy, which is applied directly to the lesion.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      Side effects during treatment may include redness, burning sensation, swelling, darkening of the skin, and superficial ulcer formation, which are generally temporary. If applied to the scalp, hair loss in the treated area may occur.

    • What are Soft Tissue Sarcomas?

      Soft tissue sarcomas are rare tumors that constitute about 1% of all cancers. They can develop in various tissues including muscles, fat, nerves, blood and lymph vessels, and tendons. There are more than 50 different types of soft tissue sarcomas including Angiosarcoma, Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST), Liposarcoma, Leiomyosarcoma, Synovial Sarcoma, Neurofibrosarcoma, Rhabdomyosarcoma, Fibrosarcoma, Myxofibrosarcoma, Mesenchymomas, Vascular Sarcoma, Schwannoma, Kaposi Sarcoma.

      Soft Tissue Sarcoma Diagnosis

      The exact cause of most sarcomas is unknown, but genetic mutations, environmental factors, and exposure to chemicals may contribute. Symptoms depend on the tumor's location, size, and whether it is near blood vessels or nerves. Common symptoms include a painful or painless lump, weight loss, and functional impairment in the affected area. Diagnosis involves imaging tests like MRI, CT scans, and sometimes PET-CT scans. A biopsy is essential to determine the type and stage of the sarcoma. Genetic tests may be performed if a hereditary syndrome is suspected.

      Treatment Options for Soft Tissue Sarcomas

      Surgery is the primary treatment, often accompanied by radiotherapy and sometimes chemotherapy. It may be used before surgery to reduce tumor size or after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells. For inoperable tumors, radiotherapy is the main treatment. It can also be used palliatively to relieve symptoms like pain.

      Radiotherapy in Sarcomas

      Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays like X-rays, to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiotherapy is usually given five days a week over 5-6 weeks. The daily treatment duration averages between 5-20 minutes. Patients need to continue treatment regularly unless there are urgent reasons not to. Patients can continue with their daily lives after treatment, as they do not emit radiation and do not need to be isolated from others.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      Side effects are localized to the treatment area and can include skin irritation, fatigue, and temporary or permanent tissue changes. Lymphedema, joint stiffness, and long-term skin changes may occur depending on the treatment site. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

    • What is Endometrial Cancer?

      Endometrial cancer arises from the cells lining the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is one of the most common gynecological cancers and primarily affects postmenopausal women.

      Risk Factors for Endometrial Cancer

      Risk factors include obesity, unopposed estrogen therapy, early menstruation, late menopause, nulliparity (having no children), and a family history of endometrial or other related cancers.

      Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer

      The primary symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially postmenopausal bleeding. Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and abnormal discharge.

      Diagnosis of Endometrial Cancer

      Diagnosis typically involves pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and biopsy. Hysteroscopy can also be used to obtain a clear view of the endometrium and facilitate biopsies.

      Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer

      Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery (hysterectomy), chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The extent of surgery and additional treatment depend on the stage of the cancer.

      Role of Radiotherapy in Endometrial Cancer

      Radiotherapy is used to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence after surgery and to manage symptoms in advanced cases. It can be administered as external beam radiation or brachytherapy.

      Radiotherapy may be given after surgical removal of the uterus to eliminate any residual cancer cells. The treatment schedule typically involves sessions over a few weeks, each lasting a few minutes.

      Side Effects of Radiotherapy

      Side effects may include fatigue, skin irritation in the treatment area, vaginal dryness, and, less commonly, gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea. These side effects experienced during treatment are generally mild and can be managed symptomatically. They typically decrease and often completely disappear after the treatment ends.

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Eklenme tarihi :12.03.2024 00:19:50
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