Treatment

Pediatric Radiation

Radiation therapy (also called radiation oncology) uses special kinds of energy waves or particles to fight cancer. Like surgery, radiation therapy is used in several ways depending on the type and location of the cancer. Certain levels of radiation work to destroy cancer cells or prevent cells from growing or reproducing. This treatment may provide a cure for cancer, control the disease, or help relieve its symptoms.

Although each hospital may have specific protocols, radiation therapy usually begins with these procedures:

Simulation process. After a physical examination and a review of your child's medical history, the treatment team "maps" out the position your child will be in for each treatment and the exact location on your child's body (referred to as treatment field or port) where the radiation will be given (the simulation process). Sometimes, the area on your child's body that requires treatment will be marked to make sure radiation is given properly. The treatment team may also make molds, headrests, or other devices that help to position your child during your treatment. Imaging studies may also be performed during the simulation process to help plan how to direct the radiation during treatments.
Treatment plan. Once the simulation process is completed, the radiation oncologist will determine your child's treatment plan, including the type of machine to use, the amount of radiation that is needed, and the number of treatments that will be given.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of radiation therapy for children?

Radiation therapy is given through different methods, depending on the type of cancer, the location of the cancer, and the patient's health. Sometimes, radiation therapy is used in combination with other treatments. The following are some of the different types of radiation therapy with brief explanations of their goals:

External radiation (external beam therapy). With external radiation (external beam therapy), radiation is administered by a large machine that points the energy waves directly at the tumor. The radiation therapist controls the machine. Since radiation is used to kill cancer cells, special shields may be made to protect the tissue surrounding the treatment area. Radiation treatments are painless and usually last a few minutes.
Internal radiation (brachytherapy, implant radiation). With internal radiation (brachytherapy, implant radiation), a high dose of radiation is given inside the body as close to the cancer as possible. The radiation treatment may be swallowed, injected or implanted directly into the tumor. Some of the radioactive implants are called seeds or capsules. Internal radiation involves administering a higher dose of radiation in a shorter time span when compared with external radiation. Some internal radiation treatments stay in the body temporarily; other internal treatments stay in the body permanently, although the radioactive substance loses its radiation within a short period of time. In some cases, both internal and external radiation therapies are used.

What are the side effects of radiation therapy in children?

The side effects of radiation depend on the dose and location, and if it is internal or external. Before receiving radiation for treatment of cancer, many tests may be performed to evaluate the baseline (pretreatment) function of heart, kidneys, lungs, eyes, ears and reproductive organs. Some radiation may affect the function of these organs either during treatment or months to years after treatment. Some treatment may affect fertility. The side effects usually relate to the area of the body that is receiving the radiation treatments. Potential side effects may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Hair loss (also called alopecia). Hair loss may occur if radiation therapy of the head is given. After treatment is completed, most children's hair will grow back.
Bone growth. Bone growth may also be affected, especially with young children who are still having significant bone growth. Height stature and/or limbs may be shortened because of the effect of radiation.
Skin changes. The skin may be more sensitive, reddened or irritated after having radiation. Skin care is an important part of radiation treatment. Skin changes are short-term effects of radiation. Your child's doctor will explain the necessary prevention and treatment of any skin problems related to radiation.
Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. If radiation therapy of the pelvis or abdomen is given, a child may experience diarrhea, nausea and/or vomiting.
Fatigue. Extreme tiredness called fatigue is common with radiation therapy. It may get worse as treatment goes on and can last for months after treatment ends.

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Patient Stories

Lifesaving Care for Bryan Close to Home
Bryan had vision troubles and his family was shocked to learn he had a brain tumor. After nearly six months of care at Children's National Hospital, the teen is cancer-free and excited to begin high school.