Frequently Asked Questions

See also, Conditions We Treat, Pediatric Cancers.

How does radiation work?

Radiation works by aiming high-energy photons and/or electrons at cancer cells and damaging their DNA. This prevents the cancer cells from replicating and causes them to die.

Does radiation hurt?

When a child is receiving a radiation treatment, it does not hurt or burn – it feels no different than an x-ray or CT Scan.

What are the side effects of radiation?

Radiation side effects depend on the area being treated. For example, radiation to the abdomen may cause temporary abdominal symptoms such as nausea, but it will not cause headaches or sore throat. Your radiation oncologist will discuss the possible side effects with you in detail prior to starting treatment.

Does radiation make me lose my hair?

Radiation only causes hair loss when the scalp is directly being treated (such as with brain tumors). If you are being treated to an area other than your scalp, radiation will not cause hair loss.

What types of pediatric cancers are treated with radiation?

Radiation is used to treat many pediatric cancers. These include:

• Brain Tumors – such as Medulloblastoma, Gliomas, Ependymomas, and Craniopharyngiomas
• Wilms’ Tumor
• Ewing’s Sarcoma
• Rhabdomyosarcoma
• Retinoblastoma
• Neuroblastoma
• Leukemias
• Lymphomas
• Thyroid Cancers

Does radiation therapy cause side effects not normally seen in adults getting treatment?

Radiation can cause long-term side effects having to do with the part of the body being treated. These may include bone growth problems, IQ concerns, hormone deficiencies, and second malignancies years down the road, for example. The specific long-term side effects related to a specific treatment program will be discussed at length with the patient and family before treatment is begun.

See also, Conditions We Treat, Pediatric Cancers.