Superficial radiation therapy is a type of radiation therapy used by dermatologists and other professionals. SRT is used to treat both melanoma and non melanoma cancers that have formed on the skin’s surface.
This type of skin cancer treatment is different from traditional radiation therapy, which is used to treat cancer that has formed inside the body.
Superficial radiation therapy uses a special type of instrument which directs the radiation directly to the cancerous cells on the skin surface.
Superficial radiation therapy is typically used to treat skin cancer, but it can also be used to treat other types of cancer, such as gynecologic cancers.
Superficial radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment for cancer, and it has few side effects.
Superficial radiation therapy is usually an outpatient procedure, which means that you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight.
If you are considering superficial radiation therapy, your doctor will talk to you about the risks and benefits of this type of treatment.
How Superficial Radiation Therapy Works
Superficial radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.
The x-rays are delivered to the surface of the skin, so the treatment does not damage healthy tissue.
Superficial radiation therapy is usually given in a series of treatments over a period of time.
The length of time and number of treatments you need will depend on the type and stage of cancer being treated.
Superficial Radiation Therapy for Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinomas are the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer.
They usually occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck and hands.
Superficial radiation therapy is often used to treat small basal cell skin cancer that has not spread to other areas of the body.
It may also be used to treat larger tumors that cannot be removed with surgery.
Superficial Radiation Therapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinomas are the second most common type of skin cancer.
They also usually occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck and hands.
Superficial radiation therapy is often used to treat small squamous cell skin cancer that has not spread to other areas of the body.
Is Superficial Radiation Therapy Covered By Insurance?
Superficial radiation therapy is usually covered by health insurance.
However, you may want to check with your insurer to make sure that it is covered under your particular policy.
What Are the Side Effects of Superficial Radiation Therapy?
The most common side effect of superficial radiation therapy is skin irritation.
Other possible side effects include:
- fatigue
- dry skin
- itching
- redness
- swelling
- blistering
- ulceration
In most cases, these side effects are mild and go away on their own. However, if they are severe, your doctor may recommend a different treatment.
What Is the Cost of Superficial Radiation Therapy?
Superficial radiation therapy is typically less expensive than other types of radiation therapy.
The exact cost will depend on the number of sessions you need and whether you have insurance.
You can find more information on the cost of SRT here.
Conclusion
Superficial radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment for skin cancer. It can be used to treat both non-melanoma and melanoma skin.
Side effects are typically mild and go away on their own.
If you have skin cancer, talk to your doctor about whether superficial radiation therapy is right for you.