Side effects of radiotherapy for lymphoma

Radiotherapy is one of the commonly used adjuvant treatment measures for lymphoma. It mainly uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells to treat cancer, while minimizing damage to normal cells. The side effects of radiotherapy for lymphoma vary, mainly including digestive tract discomfort, fever, decreased peripheral blood count, skin itching and hair loss.

1. Digestive tract discomfort

Lymphoma patients often experience digestive discomfort symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, and vomiting after radiotherapy, most of which are caused by gastrointestinal dysfunction caused by radiotherapy.

2. Fever

Fever is one of the common side effects of radiotherapy. The tissue damage caused by radiotherapy for lymphoma itself, especially the necrosis and absorption of tumor tissue, can cause low fever. The toxic and side effects of radiotherapy cause a decrease in blood count and weakened immune function, and are also prone to combined viral or bacterial infections and cause fever.

3. Decreased peripheral blood count

During radiotherapy for lymphoma, the division and reproduction of various hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow are inhibited, resulting in a decrease in the number of mature cells such as white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets released into the peripheral blood.

4. Skin itching

Skin damage in the irradiated area is a common side effect of radiotherapy for lymphoma. It often occurs in areas with thin and wrinkled skin such as the neck, armpits and groin. It mainly manifests as erythema, burning and itching. In severe cases, side effects such as skin peeling, rotting and exudation may occur.

5. Hair loss

Radiotherapy may cause hair loss in the area, but the hair will grow again after the treatment. The length of time depends on the dose and duration of the radiotherapy, which is generally 6 to 12 months.