Blood cancer is a group of cancers that results in the abnormal production of blood cells.
Most blood cancers begin in the bone marrow (a sponge-like blood-forming tissue), except lymphoma, which starts in the lymphatic system.
Several treatment options are available, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy/immunotherapy, or stem cell therapy. However, when people hear the term “radiation therapy for blood cancer”, they often assume radiation therapy has no role, because the cancer is “in the blood,” not in a single tumor.
Radiation therapy is a vital part of treatment for many types of blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. It is used in highly targeted and effective ways to destroy cancer cells, reduce symptoms, and prepare the body for advanced treatments such as stem cell transplants. In this blog, we will explore how radiation therapy is helpful in treating blood cancer.
How does Radiation Therapy Treat Blood Cancer?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells. It does not treat the blood directly; instead, it targets the tissues and organs where cancer cells grow, collect, or cause symptoms.
Unlike solid cancers, blood cancer spreads through the bone marrow and lymphatic system. But radiation therapy still plays a powerful role in these cases because it can target:
Bone Marrow
- Blood cells are produced inside the bone marrow. Radiation helps destroy cancer cells before a transplant.
- Lymphoma often forms solid lumps in lymph nodes or organs (spleen, liver). Radiation shrinks these quickly.
- If leukemia spreads to the brain or spinal fluid, targeted radiation helps control it.
- Radiation eases pain, swelling, or pressure caused by enlarged nodes, bones, or organs.
Types of Radiation Therapy Used in Blood Cancer Treatment
The following are the types of radiation therapy for blood cancer, given according to the type, stage, and patient’s condition.
Local Radiation Therapy: Radiation is directed at one specific area to shrink tumors where the cancerous cells have collected. It is usually used to treat lymphoma, leukemia, and relapsed cancer.
Total Body Irradiation (TBI): A special type of radiation used before stem cell or bone marrow transplant. It is used to destroy cancerous bone marrow, suppress the immune system, and create space for new, healthy donor cells. TBI is often combined with high-dose chemotherapy.
Palliative Radiation Therapy: This is given to relieve symptoms caused by blood cancer, such as bone pain, spinal cord compression, breathing difficulty, etc.
When Is Radiation Therapy Recommended for Blood Cancer?
Your doctor may advise radiation therapy in the following conditions.
- Early-stage Hodgkin or Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Enlarged lymph nodes causing discomfort
- Leukemia spreading to the brain or spine
- To prepare for a stem cell transplant
- To treat relapsed cancer in one area
Benefits of Radiation Therapy for Blood Cancer
- Relief from pain and pressure
- Shrinks lymph node tumors effectively
- Helps prevent relapse after transplant
- Targets areas chemo cannot reach
- Cures early-stage lymphoma when combined with chemotherapy
Also Read:- Chemotherapy for Blood Cancer
Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
Side effects vary depending on the area being treated.
Common short-term effects:
- Fatigue
- Skin irritation
- Temporary hair loss
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
Area-specific effects:
- Brain radiation: headaches, memory changes
- Chest radiation: cough or sore throat
- Abdominal radiation: stomach discomfort
Most side effects improve within a few weeks and are manageable with supportive care.
Recovery & Follow-Up After Radiation
During this period, patients are advised to report new or unusual symptoms promptly, maintain a nutritious diet, stay well-hydrated, and take all prescribed medications as directed. Since fatigue is common after radiation, adequate rest is equally important for a smoother and faster recovery.
Key Takeaways
Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the management of leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Whether used to kill cancer cells, prepare for a transplant, or relieve symptoms, it remains an essential part of modern blood cancer treatment.
Depending on the type and severity of blood cancer, it may be combined with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy to get the best outcomes. With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, many patients achieve remission and improved quality of life.