RADIATION THERAPY Radiation therapy may be used in the treatment of some rare tumors. Radiation therapy is a special kind of X-ray treatment that kills or damages rapidly growing cells like cancer cells. Radiation may be given before or after chemotherapy. If radiation therapy is necessary for your child, the radiation therapy specialist will discuss with you exactly how the radiation will be given and how long the treatments will last. Most children experience very few side effects while they are receiving radiation therapy. Some children may be more tired or have decreased appetites, and some may experience redness or increased pigmentation of the skin at the radiation site. The side effects of radiation depend on the area of the body treated, and they usually clear up after treatment. There can be side effects that develop later, however, and the possible effects will be discussed with you in detail by your treatment team.
HOW LONG WILL MY CHILD’S THERAPY LAST?
This depends on the type and stage of your child’s disease at the time of diagnosis. The length of treatment may be changed based on your child’s response to the treatment.
WHAT IF THE CANCER RETURNS?
Sometimes cancer may come back (also known as a recurrence or relapse). If this happens, your child’s medical team may suggest additional chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
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Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON)
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