Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer: Side effects and advances of Oncapsisens RX

Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer: A Technical Approach to its Effects and Care

The treatment of breast cancer has evolved considerably in recent decades, and radiotherapy has established itself as a fundamental pillar in the fight against this disease.

Effectiveness of Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer

Radiotherapy has been established as one of the most effective treatments in preventing breast cancer recurrence and eliminating residual cancer cells. Through the controlled emission of X-rays, protons or other particles, radiotherapy achieves its objective without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue, avoiding relapses and postoperative complications. This technical approach stands as a vital resource in the arsenal of tools to combat this disease.

Treatment Goal: Precise Elimination of Tumor Cells

The primary objective of radiotherapy in breast cancer is the complete eradication of tumor cells, minimizing the impact on adjacent healthy tissues. The treatment is precisely targeted to the site of origin of the cancer, which not only increases its chances of success but also ensures its effectiveness.

Types of Radiotherapy

There are two modalities of radiotherapy used in the treatment of breast cancer, each with specific technical characteristics:

1. External Radiation Therapy : In this approach, energy rays are delivered to the patient from a machine located at a distance from the body, aimed directly at the affected areas. The duration of the treatment can last several weeks, with a daily application of a few minutes. This method allows precise control over the radiation dose administered.

2. Brachytherapy or Internal Radiotherapy : After the tumor is removed, a device is introduced into the affected area, which emits radiation for a certain period. This treatment can be performed in a single session (with the patient admitted for hours or days) or in several sessions, in which the patient must attend the hospital. The choice between these methods depends on the clinical situation and the patient's preferences.

Possible Side Effects

Despite the precision of radiation therapy, there are potential side effects that professionals should consider:

• Asthenia : Radiation therapy can cause asthenia, temporary fatigue. It is recommended to avoid physical exertion during treatment.

• Skin Reactions : Burns and skin reactions are common during treatment and usually disappear once it ends. It is advisable to avoid sun exposure in the treated areas and follow dermatological care.

  Of patients receiving Radiation Therapy, up to 95% may experience some type of radiation dermatitis or radiation-induced skin injury. Radiation dermatitis may manifest as acute erythema and scaling. If the dermatitis is severe, it carries the risk of limiting the radiation dose or stopping the treatment program, which could negatively affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
  
  Consequently, the management of radiation-induced skin lesions during and after treatment is an important aspect of cancer patient care.

  It has been shown that skin damage is inevitable for patients receiving Radiotherapy.
  
  Hyperpigmentation is the problem most reported by patients, followed by erythema. However, dryness, followed by burning sensation and irritation, is the most uncomfortable experience that patients must deal with during radiotherapy and which most affects their quality of life.
  
  In fact, different studies indicate that patients report a worsening of quality of life after Radiotherapy and, specifically, the greatest degree of worsening is observed in the physical domain (i.e., greater frequency of itching, burning or stinging and irritation), followed by the emotional and functional domain.

• Hair Loss : Radiotherapy can cause hair loss in the irradiated areas.

• Reduction in Breast Size : In some cases, a decrease in the size of the treated breast is observed.

Special Skin Care

The skin is especially affected by radiation therapy, and proper care is essential. Some technical tips to minimize discomfort include:

• Washing with Warm Water and Mild Soaps : It is recommended to wash the skin with warm water and mild soaps, avoiding vigorous rubbing.

• Sun Protection : Sun exposure should be avoided on treated areas. It is suggested to protect them effectively.

• Use of Recommended Creams : Oncapsisens RX, will soon be released on the market and will improve sensory discomfort such as dryness, followed by burning sensation and irritation.

• Choosing Appropriate Clothing : Clothing should be loose-fitting, soft and smooth fabric, to minimize friction on the skin.

Radiation dermatitis or peripheral neuropathy caused as a side effect of radiotherapy reduces the well-being of cancer patients.

Oncapsisens RX : Under investigation by Prospera Biotech, this neurodermatological formulation is presented as an innovative solution to effectively address sensory discomfort in the skin. From itching, burning and acute erythema, to peeling, hyperpigmentation, dryness, followed by burning sensation and irritation, Oncapsisens RX promises to offer relief and improve the quality of life of those who use it.

Sources:

https://www.cancer.net/es/asimilaci%C3%B3n-con-c%C3%A1ncer/efectos-f%C3%ADsicos-emocionales-y-sociales-del-c%C3%A1ncer/manejo- side-effects of physical/cut%C3%A1neal-conditions

https://www.cancer.org/es/cancer/como-sobrellevar-el-cancer/tipos-de-tratamiento/radioterapia/como-sobrellevar.html

https://www.gruposolti.org/radioterapia-como-Function-y-sus-efectos-secundarios/

https://www.breastcancer.org/es/treatment/radiotherapy/secondary-effects