Skin cancer is defined as the presence of cancerous cells in the skin tissue. There are several types of skin cancer that range in severity. Some forms of skin cancer can be effectively treated with radiation therapy because the cells are sensitive to radiation. Other forms of skin cancer are resistant to radiation and require a different method of treatment.
Function
Radiation treatment destroys cancerous cells and prevents the spread of cancer by exposing the cells to high-energy radiation rays or particles.
External
External radiation treatment directly exposes the cancerous skin cells to forms of radiation. X-rays, gamma rays and electron beams are forms of radiation used for treatment.
Internal
Internal radiation treatment implants radioactive material at or near the cancer site. The radioactive material can be placed through needles, catheters, wires or capsules.
Length
External treatment is typically administered three to five times a week for up to seven weeks. Low-dose radioactive devices are left in place for up to seven days. High-dose devices are implanted for 20-minute intervals for up to five weeks.
Effectiveness
Success rates for radiation treatment depend on the type of cancer being treated. Melanoma is rarely treated successfully with radiation, but basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous lymphomas respond well to radiation treatment.
Tags: radiation treatment, cancerous cells, forms radiation, forms skin, forms skin cancer, radioactive material
