When radiation is used to treat skin cancer it is the use of x-rays to eliminate the skin cancer cells. It will usually take multiple visits for treatment before the skin cancer can be completely destroyed. It will take place over time. Skin cancer radiation treatment is generally used when skin cancer keeps coming back or is particularly resistant to treatment.
Radiation is not a preferred treatment for skin cancer. In some cases, however, no other treatment will be effective. There are many cases in which the patient's condition and other factors will require radiation treatment to be used against skin cancers. There are several reasons why a patient afflicted with skin cancer may seek radiation treatment. One possibility is that the patient has inherent medical or health risks that would prevent them from other types of treatment.
The area where the skin cancer is either too large or in an area that is not conducive to treatment with surgery are other reasons that radiation treatment might be sought. It is always possible that a skin cancer has been treated but is reoccurring frequently.
Skin cancer isn't a sure or easy thing. This type of treatment in particular does show some success - a 50% to 25% drop in recurrence of the disease.
Radiation treatment of skin cancer carries significant risks. The radiation may lead to new cancers in the area surrounding your current cancer. Such cancers will be much more difficult to treat because of the radiation exposure. Healthy skin in that area may also be seriously damaged.
Radiation treatment of skin cancer carries some significant side effects. These include loss of energy and appetite, hair that falls out, and persistent skin redness. These side effects usually last no longer than the radiation treatment.
Your doctor should have already discussed this kind of treatment for your skin cancer if you are seriously considering it. You will need to be very careful in reviewing your situation, to ensure that this treatment suits your needs. Radiation may not be the best option for treating you skin cancer, and your doctor should consider all other treatment options before proceeding with radiation treatment.
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If someone has Skin Cancer and Radiation Therapy is been discussed as a treatment option you should understand what questions you should be asking.
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