Vartalosädehoito

Vartalosädehoito, also known as total body irradiation (TBI), is a type of radiation therapy used to treat certain cancers, most commonly leukemia and lymphoma. It involves delivering a high dose of radiation to the entire body. TBI is often a component of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), also known as bone marrow transplantation. Before a stem cell transplant, the patient's diseased bone marrow is destroyed through a combination of chemotherapy and TBI. This process makes space in the bone marrow for the new stem cells and suppresses the patient's immune system to prevent rejection of the transplanted cells.

The radiation is typically delivered in multiple sessions over several days. The patient lies on a special table and a linear accelerator delivers the radiation from different angles to ensure uniform coverage of the entire body. Due to the high doses of radiation, TBI can cause significant side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin redness and peeling, hair loss, fatigue, and a weakened immune system, making the patient susceptible to infections. Long-term side effects can include cataracts, infertility, and the development of secondary cancers.

The decision to use TBI is based on the specific type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. It is a powerful treatment that can be effective in eradicating cancer cells throughout the body and preparing the patient for a stem cell transplant. However, its use is carefully weighed against the potential risks and side effects. Medical professionals monitor patients closely throughout and after TBI treatment to manage side effects and assess treatment effectiveness.