Mesothelioma Radiation, Mesothelioma Brachytherapy

Mesothelioma Radiation

Radiation therapy is one of the oldest forms of mesothelioma cancer treatment available, though it has consistently become more sophisticated as the years have passed. The techniques now available to deliver the radiation have resulted in more targeted therapy and better results. For mesothelioma patients, radiation is often used together with chemotherapy for optimal results, or may be used after a form of surgery that is designed to remove as much of the cancer as possible. It

may also be employed to relieve some of the symptoms of mesothelioma disease and make the patient more comfortable.

External Beam Radiation

External beam radiation uses a radiation source to target a specific locale and eliminate or slow the growth of malignant cells in this area.

The oldest and most widely used form mesothelioma of radiation therapy is known as external beam radiation.  This is the "original" form of radiation treatment and the type with which most people are familiar.

External beam radiation is administered by means of a machine that delivers an external source of radiation directly to the affected area where the tumor is located. This machine mesothelioma slowly moves around the body but does not touch it. As such, this particular kind of cancer treatment is painless and can be delivered at an outpatient facility, so no hospital stays are necessary.

As with all forms of radiation therapy, the external beam variety is intended to kill mesothelioma cancer cells and to stop them from multiplying. Dosages of radiation involved in this type of treatment are fairly high and can reach areas of the body other than the tumor. Therefore, healthy cells are also sometimes affected.