Nasopharyngeal cancer treatment with radiotherapy

The nasopharyngeal tumor is very susceptible to radiation, which destroys and slows down its growth. Therefore, radiotherapy is believed to be the most effective treatment of malignant nose and pharynx tumors. Thus, at the early stage, it may be the only treatment. However, depending on oncologists' recommendations, radiation therapy can be combined with chemotherapy or surgery. Before starting treatment, the irradiated area should be clearly defined to minimize side effects and preserve healthy tissues. Therefore, the size and shape of the tumor are checked by CT scans. And special ink marks the area of the head and neck that will be irradiated. The patient should be motionless throughout the session to avoid deviations from the rays. As a result, a special thermoplastic mask is made for him, which helps to immobilize the head and neck. Treatment is usually carried out from Monday to Friday for five to seven weeks, each lasting five to ten minutes. First, the patient is placed on a table. Then, the device directs radiation directly to the tumor. The procedure is painless and usually well-tolerated.