The correct spelling of the term Whole Body Irradiations can be quite confusing due to its uncommon pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /hoʊl ˈbɑdi ɪˌreɪdiˈeɪʃənz/. The first syllable "whole" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, while "body" and "irradiation" have short "o" sounds. The stress falls on the second syllable of "irradiations." This term is most commonly used in medical contexts to refer to the exposure of the entire body to radiation for the purpose of treating certain diseases.
Whole body irradiation refers to a medical procedure in which the entire body of an individual is exposed to ionizing radiation. This process is commonly used in the field of oncology, particularly in the treatment of certain types of cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, as well as in the preparation for bone marrow or stem cell transplantations. The aim of whole body irradiation is to destroy cancerous cells or suppress the immune system to prevent graft rejection during transplants.
During the procedure, the patient is positioned in a room equipped with a radiation therapy machine that emits high-energy X-rays or gamma rays. The radiation is directed towards the person's body from multiple angles, effectively penetrating the skin and reaching all organs and tissues. The patient is usually required to lie still on a treatment table for a specific duration, which could last for a few minutes or multiple sessions over several days.
Whole body irradiation is carefully planned and conducted by a team of radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and other healthcare professionals who consider a variety of factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and the desired treatment outcome. The radiation dose and treatment schedule are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Although whole body irradiation can be an effective treatment modality, it does present certain risks and side effects, including nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased vulnerability to infections. Hence, patients undergoing this therapy are closely monitored and provided with supportive care to manage these potential adverse effects.