Multiple Myeloma Radiation Therapy & Treatment

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Video: Dr. Bernard Eden

Dr. Bernard Eden

Listen to radiation oncologist Dr. Eden describe what it's like to work with a team of cancer experts at CTCA to acquire the latest cancer treatments for patients.

Radiation Therapy for Multiple Myeloma

Some multiple myeloma patients at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) receive radiation treatment as part of their care. Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy X-rays to destroy myeloma cells, prevent the growth of new myeloma cells and/or relieve symptoms.

Our multiple myeloma experts use highly targeted radiation therapy delivery systems to treat the disease, including:

The area treated with radiation and the dose administered is based on your individual diagnosis, including the stage of the disease and your symptoms.

For example, radiation therapy may be used to treat a specific area where there is bone damage and pain caused by myeloma cells growing in the bone marrow. In addition, radiation therapy is sometimes given in preparation for a stem cell transplant to destroy as many myeloma cells as possible.

Helping You Maintain Your Quality of Life

The side effects of radiation therapy for multiple myeloma depend on the treatment dose, the part of the body being radiated, the duration of the radiation and other factors. Radiation may cause a drop in white blood cell count, which can increase the risk of infection. Some other side effects may include: fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite and skin irritation.

During your radiation treatment, your CTCA care team will monitor your blood counts regularly. If needed, we’ll provide therapies to stimulate your blood cell production and/or antibiotics to prevent/treat infection.

We’ll also work with you to manage radiation-induced side effects. You’ll receive therapies like nutrition therapy, naturopathic medicine, pain management, oncology rehabilitation and mind-body medicine—all under one roof. These therapies can help to keep you strong so you can better tolerate treatment and maintain your quality of life.

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