Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) is a non-invasive treatment option for non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and certain cases of cutaneous lymphomas. SRT uses low-energy x-rays to target only the surface layers of the skin, minimizing exposure to deeper tissues. This therapy is especially effective for skin cancers located in areas that are difficult to treat surgically (e.g., nose, ears, eyelids) or in patients who are not good candidates for surgery due to age, medical comorbidities, or concerns about scarring【Bhatnagar et al., 2017】.

SRT is typically administered in multiple sessions over several weeks, depending on the size, depth, and location of the tumor. It has a high cure rate comparable to surgical options, with over 90% success rates for early-stage BCC and SCC. SRT is painless, and side effects are usually limited to localized skin changes, such as redness, dryness, peeling, or temporary hair loss in the treated area. More rarely, long-term side effects like skin thinning, pigmentation changes, or delayed healing may occur. It is well-tolerated and preserves surrounding healthy tissue, making it a viable option for cosmetically sensitive areas.

Electronic Brachytherapy (eBx) is an advanced form of brachytherapy used to treat skin cancers, particularly non-melanoma types like BCC and SCC. Unlike traditional brachytherapy, which involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor, eBx uses a miniaturized x-ray source to deliver high doses of radiation directly to the tumor site while sparing surrounding tissues. This technique is highly localized, allowing precise targeting of cancerous cells while reducing the risk of damaging healthy tissue【Ballester-Sánchez et al., 2015】.

The treatment typically involves a series of sessions over several days to weeks. eBx has shown promising cure rates comparable to traditional surgical excision, with high cosmetic outcomes and minimal side effects. Because it is delivered directly to the tumor site, eBx minimizes radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue, and there is no need for a radioactive implant, as with traditional brachytherapy. Side effects may include localized skin reactions like redness, peeling, dryness, and, in some cases, mild discomfort. Rarely, more severe side effects like ulceration, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation may occur, but overall, the therapy is well-tolerated.

Both SRT and electronic brachytherapy provide effective, non-invasive options for treating skin cancer with excellent cosmetic results. They are particularly valuable for patients who are not candidates for surgery or for tumors located in sensitive areas where surgery may not be feasible. With comparable cure rates to traditional surgical methods and minimal side effects, these therapies offer a valuable alternative in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers.