Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the area of the body with cancer.

External radiation therapy may be used to treat ALL that has spread, or may spread, to the brain and spinal cord. When used this way, it is called central nervous system (CNS) sanctuary therapy or CNS prophylaxis. Total-body irradiation may be used to send radiation toward the whole body when preparing for a stem cell transplant. External radiation therapy may also be used as palliative therapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Learn more about External Beam Radiation Therapy for Cancer and Radiation Therapy Side Effects.