What does TSEB mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Total Skin Electron Boost, or TSEB, is a type of radiotherapy used to treat certain types of skin cancer, such as melanoma. It utilizes high-energy electrons which are targeted at the entire body, except for organs that may be sensitive to radiation.

TSEB is usually delivered through either external beam radiation therapy or total body electron irradiation (TBEI). In external beam radiation therapy, external x-rays are aimed at specific areas of the body. In TBEI, electrons are projected onto the entire body from one or more sources.

The procedure typically involves lying down on a table for about 15 minutes while receiving treatment from a machine outside the treatment area. The doctor will aim and adjust the beams to ensure accuracy and safety. Patients may also wear special shields to protect parts of their body from undue exposure to radiation during the procedure.

The most common side effect associated with TSEB is fatigue due to prolonged exposure to radiation. Other potential side effects include skin reddening or drying out and hair loss in localized areas where radiation was applied heavily. In rare cases, there may also be an increased risk of developing secondary cancers due to prolonged exposure to radiation.

Yes, depending on the type and stage of skin cancer, a patient may be eligible for other treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, laser ablation therapy or topical creams/ointments containing anti-cancer medications such as imiquimod or 5-FU (fluorouracil). Radiation therapy can also be used alone or combined with other treatments depending on individual circumstances.