breast cancer

[canutell2me]

When should  radiation treatments begin?


This discussion is related to breast problem in teen.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  If you're referring to radiation treatment in breast cancer, it can be given around 4-5 weeks after a major surgery (such as lumpectomy in early breast cancer) to allow the operative wound time to heal properly.  If it's going to be given after chemotherapy, it's usually given around 3 weeks after the chemotherapy session.  This is to allow the patient's body, particularly her blood cells, to recover from the effects of the chemotherapy.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Radiation treatment for breast cancer should begin 4 weeks after the completion of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy or 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.  Radiation treatment is delivered daily for 5 days per week.
Hope this helps.