Total skin electron therapy, or TSET, is an effective form of radiation-based treatment for mycosis fungoides, a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. As the name suggests, the entire surface of the skin is treated with radiation; however, only low-energy electrons are used to destroy cancer cells. Because electrons do not travel deep below the surface of the skin, underlying tissues and organs are usually unaffected by TSET.

Most patients who receive total skin electron therapy have two sessions per week for a period of six to nine weeks. However, this schedule can be adjusted based on several patient-specific factors. Additionally, if signs of cancer are still present after the completion of an initial treatment cycle, additional “boost” treatments might be recommended to destroy any remaining cancer cells.  

To help improve a patient’s outcome, oncologists may recommend one or more treatments before or after TSET, such as:

• Immunotherapy
• Retinoid therapy
• Topical chemotherapy

What to Expect

Total skin electron therapy is a painless, outpatient treatment therapy. You may be sitting, standing or lying down on a table. Although you will be alone in the room during treatment, a radiation therapist will monitor you on a screen outside the room. You may speak with the radiation therapist using a speaker.

Each treatment session takes about 30 minutes. Treatments occur approximately two to four times a week for two to three months.

Possible Side Effects

Because no two people respond in the same way to radiation therapy, we will discuss potential side effects with you. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of hair
• Loss of fingernails and toenails
• Skin irritation