Whole body radiation, also known as total body irradiation (TBI), is a type of radiation therapy used to treat certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma. It involves exposing the entire body to a uniform dose of radiation, with the goal of eradicating cancer cells that may have spread throughout the body. TBI is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation to treat hematologic malignancies.
Principles of Whole Body Radiation
The principle behind whole body radiation is to deliver a high dose of radiation to the entire body, while minimizing the risk of damage to healthy tissues. This is achieved through the use of specialized radiation equipment, such as linear accelerators, which can deliver a precise dose of radiation to the body. The radiation dose is typically delivered in a fractionated manner, with multiple treatments given over a period of several days or weeks.
Radiation Dose and Fractionation
The radiation dose used in whole body radiation therapy can vary depending on the specific type of cancer being treated, as well as the individual patient’s overall health and medical history. Typical doses range from 100 to 1,200 cGy, with some protocols using higher or lower doses. The dose is often fractionated, with multiple treatments given at intervals of 1-4 days. For example, a common fractionation schedule might involve delivering 200 cGy per fraction, with 6-8 fractions given over a period of 2-3 weeks.
| Radiation Dose | Number of Fractions | Total Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 200 cGy | 6 | 1,200 cGy |
| 150 cGy | 8 | 1,200 cGy |
| 100 cGy | 12 | 1,200 cGy |
Effects of Whole Body Radiation on the Body
Whole body radiation can have both acute and long-term effects on the body. Acute effects, which occur during or shortly after treatment, can include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and skin reactions. Long-term effects, which can occur months or years after treatment, can include infertility, immune system suppression, and increased risk of secondary cancers. The severity and likelihood of these effects depend on the radiation dose and fractionation schedule, as well as the individual patient’s overall health and medical history.
Acute Effects of Whole Body Radiation
Acute effects of whole body radiation can be severe and debilitating, but are often temporary and reversible. Common acute effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Skin reactions, such as redness and itching
- Mucositis, or inflammation of the mucous membranes
- Diarrhea
These effects can be managed with medications and supportive care, and often resolve on their own within a few weeks after treatment.
Long-Term Effects of Whole Body Radiation
Long-term effects of whole body radiation can be more severe and permanent, and can have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life. Common long-term effects include:
- Infertility, due to damage to the reproductive organs
- Immune system suppression, which can increase the risk of infections and other diseases
- Increased risk of secondary cancers, such as leukemia and solid tumors
- Cognitive impairment, including memory loss and difficulty with concentration
- Cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke
These effects can be managed with ongoing medical care and surveillance, and can often be mitigated with preventive measures, such as hormone replacement therapy and cardiovascular screening.
What is the goal of whole body radiation therapy?
+The goal of whole body radiation therapy is to eradicate cancer cells that may have spread throughout the body, in order to prevent recurrence and improve survival.
What are the common side effects of whole body radiation therapy?
+Common side effects of whole body radiation therapy include nausea and vomiting, fatigue, skin reactions, mucositis, and diarrhea. Long-term effects can include infertility, immune system suppression, and increased risk of secondary cancers.
How is whole body radiation therapy delivered?
+Whole body radiation therapy is typically delivered using a linear accelerator, which can deliver a precise dose of radiation to the body. The radiation dose is often fractionated, with multiple treatments given at intervals of 1-4 days.
In conclusion, whole body radiation therapy is a complex and highly individualized treatment that requires careful planning and monitoring to minimize side effects and maximize efficacy. By understanding the principles and effects of whole body radiation, patients and healthcare providers can work together to develop effective treatment plans and improve outcomes for patients with cancer.
