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Penny R. Anderson, MD
After completing my training at Fox Chase, I joined the radiation oncology department attending staff in 1999. I chose to stay at Fox Chase because I wanted to remain in a research setting at a hospital with the highest excellence in cancer care. In my practice, I specialize in treating patients with gynecological cancers, breast cancer and sarcoma.
As a female oncologist, I address the many unique treatment issues specific to women. My patients discuss their personal issues surrounding their cancer as well the side effects of treatment. It is gratifying to offer comfort, not only through radiation treatment, but afterwards in their follow-up care.
I believe it is important to spend time educating my patients. These women have many personal issues related to quality-of-life. We provide education and support from diagnosis throughout treatment and follow-up care.
A particular accomplishment of mine was changing the practice of gynecological high-dose-rate brachytherapy in 2001 from an inpatient to an outpatient procedure for patients. This procedure is now much easier for patients to tolerate, while maximizing our highest quality of care.
At Fox Chase, we use the most sophisticated technology for both external beam (IMRT) radiation therapy and brachytherapy. We have a CT and an MRI simulator for gynecological cancer treatment planning. We use CT/MR-based brachytherapy treatment planning for patients with gynecological cancers.
As a breast cancer specialist, I am part of the Breast Evaluation Center's multispecialty team at Fox Chase. My role is integral in developing the best course of treatment for our newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. At Fox Chase, we use IMRT to treat women with breast cancer.
In treating patients with sarcoma, I collaborate with the surgeons and medical oncologists to determine the best course of treatment. Before surgery, radiation therapy helps to reduce the tumor's size, making it easier to remove. Following surgery, radiation therapy can improve local control and chance for cure. In treating sarcomas, we use an MR simulator in the planning process, which helps improve accuracy of treatment.
Research is another interest of mine. I am the principal investigator for two intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) protocols at Fox Chase. These trials are evaluating the use of IMRT in women with cervical and endometrial cancer. Each year, I am invited to present at many professional meetings, including the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) and ASTRO (American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology).
Video
Introductory Video of Dr. Anderson
Radiation Oncology
Attending Physician
Meet other members of the gynecological cancer treatment team..
Meet other members of the sarcoma treatment team..
Fox Chase Cancer Center
333 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497
To make an appointment, call:
215-728-3815..
For general information, call:
.
1-888-FOX CHASE..
An oncology certified nurse will assist you
Clinical Expertise:
Breast Cancer; Cervical Cancer; Endometrial Cancer; Ovarian Cancer; Soft Tissue Sarcoma; Sarcomas; Brachytherapy
Medical Education:
Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa., 1994
Residency:
Radiation Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pa.
Fellowship:
Radiation Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pa.
Certification:
American Board of Radiology, Therapeutic Radiology
Professional Societies:
American Society of Clinical Oncology;
American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology;
Radiation Therapy Oncology Group;
Gynecologic Oncology Group;
Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group
Scientific Report:
Breast Cancer Research;
Breast Cancer Care and Research Group;
Radiation Oncology;
Sarcoma Program
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