X-ray for Cancer

What are X-rays?

X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to create images on a film or digital media of the internal tissues, bones, and organs. For various purposes, regular X-rays are done for the detection of tumours or bone fractures. X-rays are produced for medical purposes through the use of external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs and other internal structures. X-rays move through body structures onto specially-treated plates (similar to camera film), or digital media and a “negative” style image is formed (the more solid a structure is, the whiter it appears on the film).

As the body undergoes X-rays, various parts of the body cause the X-Ray beams to pass through differing quantities. The body’s soft tissues (such as blood, skin, fat, and muscle) cause much of the X-Ray to move through the film or digital camera and appear dark grey. A bone or tumour that is denser than soft tissue enables the passage of several X-rays and appears white on the X-Ray. When a bone break occurs, the X-Ray beam travels through the fractured region and appears in the white bone as a dark line.

Other types of diagnostic procedures such as arteriograms, computed tomography ( CT) scans, and Fluoroscopy also use X-Ray technology. Radiation can cause birth defects during pregnancy. If you think you might be pregnant, always tell your radiologist or doctor.

How are X-rays performed?

X-rays may be done on an outpatient basis or as part of hospital treatment. Although each facility may have complex procedures in place, this method usually follows an X-Ray procedure:

• The patient may be asked to remove any clothing or jewellery that should conflict with the area of the body to be examined. If clothes must be removed, the patient will be given a gown to wear.
• The patient is placed on an X-Ray table carefully placing the portion of the body to be X-rayed between the X-Ray machine and a cassette containing the X-Ray film or specialized picture disk. Some exams can be carried out in a seated or standing position with the patient.
• Body parts which are not imaged can be covered with a lead apron (shield) to prevent X-Ray exposure.
• The X-Ray beam targets the area to be imaged.
• The patient needs to be very quiet or the picture gets blurred.
• The tech will step behind a protective window, and the picture will be taken.

Different X-rays can be taken at various angles, such as the front and side view of an X-Ray in the abdomen, depending on the body part under examination.

Advantages and disadvantages of using X-rays for cancer:

Advantages:

Imaging: X-rays provide a non-invasive way to produce images of the inside of the body, allowing doctors to visualize the location, size, and shape of tumors. This helps in diagnosing cancer and determining the extent of its spread.

Speed: X-ray imaging is relatively quick, providing immediate results. This allows doctors to make prompt decisions regarding further testing, treatment planning, and interventions.

Availability: X-ray technology is widely available in medical facilities, making it convenient for patients to undergo imaging procedures. It is also less expensive compared to some other imaging techniques, such as MRI or PET scans.

Effective for certain types of cancer: X-rays are particularly useful for detecting and monitoring certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer, breast cancer, bone cancer, and some types of gastrointestinal tumors.

Radiation therapy: X-rays are also used in radiation therapy to treat cancer. They can be precisely targeted at the tumor site to destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth.

Disadvantages:

Ionizing radiation: X-rays use ionizing radiation, which can potentially damage cells and DNA. Repeated exposure to X-rays over time may increase the risk of developing cancer. However, the radiation dose used in diagnostic X-ray procedures is generally considered safe and the benefits usually outweigh the risks.

Limited tissue differentiation: X-rays are not as effective as other imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans, when it comes to distinguishing between different types of soft tissues. This can sometimes make it challenging to accurately identify certain types of tumors or assess their characteristics.

Lack of functional information: X-rays provide structural information but do not provide functional information about the tumor or its activity. Additional imaging tests or procedures may be required to gather more detailed functional data.

Limited visualization of certain structures: X-rays are less effective at visualizing certain anatomical structures, such as the brain or the digestive system. Other imaging methods, such as MRI or ultrasound, are often preferred for evaluating these areas.

Limited sensitivity for early detection: X-rays may not be sensitive enough to detect small tumors or early-stage cancers, especially in dense tissues. Other imaging techniques or screening methods, such as mammography or molecular imaging, may be more suitable for early cancer detection.

It's important to note that the use of X-rays for cancer diagnosis and treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual patient's needs, risks, and available alternatives. Medical professionals carefully weigh the benefits and risks to ensure the most appropriate and effective approach is chosen for each patient.