Radiooncology

Radiooncology, also known as radiation oncology, is a medical specialty that uses ionizing radiation to treat cancer. It is one of the three main pillars of cancer treatment, alongside surgery and medical oncology. Radiation oncologists work as part of a multidisciplinary team to plan and deliver radiation therapy, a complex and precise form of treatment.

The goal of radiation therapy is to damage the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing, and ultimately leading to their death. While the radiation targets cancer cells, efforts are made to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This is achieved through sophisticated imaging techniques and treatment planning software that allows for precise targeting of tumors.

Different types of radiation therapy exist, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), where radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body, and brachytherapy, where radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumor. The choice of treatment depends on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

Radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment to cure cancer, as an adjuvant treatment to eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery, or as a palliative treatment to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Side effects of radiation therapy vary depending on the area treated and the dose delivered, and can range from mild skin irritation to more significant fatigue or organ-specific issues. These side effects are carefully managed by the radiation oncology team.