What is the difference between radiotherapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

As we all know, there are two treatments for nasopharyngeal carcinoma: radiotherapy and chemotherapy. So, what is the difference between radiotherapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma? Now, let me introduce it to you.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma refers to a malignant tumor that occurs on the roof and side walls of the nasopharyngeal cavity. It is one of the most common malignant tumors in my country and ranks first among malignant tumors of the ear, nose and throat. Common clinical symptoms include nasal congestion, blood in the nose, stuffy ears, hearing loss, diplopia and headache. Most nasopharyngeal carcinomas are moderately sensitive to radiotherapy, and radiotherapy is the first choice for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, surgical resection and chemotherapy are also indispensable means for well-differentiated cancer, late course of disease, and recurrence after radiotherapy.

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are two methods of treating malignant tumors. These two methods are effective against tumors. Let's look at the difference between the two.

Radiotherapy uses X-rays, gamma rays, electron beams and other radiation to irradiate cancerous tissues. Due to the biological effects of radiation, they can kill a large amount of cancerous tissue, destroy cancerous tissues, and shrink them. The principle is to destroy the chromosomes of cells and stop the growth of cells based on the energy brought by a large amount of radiation. It can be used to fight the rapid growth and division of cancer cells. Radiation therapy is usually a direct or auxiliary treatment method for cancer.

Chemotherapy kills cancer cells through drugs, and radiotherapy kills cancer cells in the division cycle through rays. Different tumors are suitable for different treatments, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma and choriocarcinoma are suitable for chemotherapy. These two methods cannot be isolated. In many cases, radiotherapy and chemotherapy can also be synchronized to increase the effect. Generally, chemotherapy is about 4-5 days, once every three or two weeks. Radiotherapy is continuous irradiation, about a few minutes a day, for about 20-40 days.

Through the above introduction, I believe everyone has a certain understanding of the difference between radiotherapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and I hope it will be helpful to everyone. If nasopharyngeal carcinoma is found, it should be treated in time to prevent the disease from worsening.