Total Body Irradiation
(TBI)
What Is TBI?
TBI involves treating the entire body with uniform radiation. It is typically combined with chemotherapy to fully prepare the patient for a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). This approach is commonly used in the treatment of blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
How TBI Works
Precise radiation planning ensures even dose distribution across the body
The patient may receive multiple low-dose sessions over a few days
Shielding techniques are used to protect sensitive organs, such as the lungs or kidneys
TBI is performed in a controlled, monitored environment with specialized equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
You usually have TBI treatment twice a day for 3 or 4 days. Or it may be just 1 or 2 radiotherapy treatments. Radiographers give the treatment. They will explain to you how they plan the treatment and how you have radiotherapy.
Radiotherapy is a treatment that uses high energy rays, similar to x-rays. As preparation for your stem cell or bone marrow transplant, you might have TBI at the same time as:
- high dose chemotherapy drugs
- targeted cancer drugs
It is a treatment for some people with:
- lymphoma – cancer of the lymphatic system
- leukaemia – cancer that develops in the white blood cells of the immune system
- myeloma – cancer that develops in white blood cells called plasma cells
- myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) – a group of blood cancers where the bone marrow doesn’t work properly and makes abnormal blood cells
Before you receive total body irradiation, you’ll have an appointment — called a simulation — to plan your treatment. This is like a trial run of the treatment you’ll receive. It helps your healthcare providers ensure that you’re positioned so you can get the right dose of radiation.
You may stay in the hospital for several days while you receive total body irradiation. During treatment:
The radiation therapist positions you the same way as during your planning appointment (simulation). They may place boards or devices over certain areas of your body, such as your lungs, to lower the radiation dose to that area. They may set up a large screen in front of your body that ensures even radiation distribution.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
You’ll need follow-up appointments to check on your progress after VMAT. Keep all scheduled appointments. Come prepared to ask questions about your treatment response and report any symptoms or side effects you’re experiencing.