Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer.
Procedure in a Nutshell:
Immunotherapy involves using drugs or other substances that help the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Immunotherapy drugs may be given through an injection, an infusion, or as a pill.
Different types of immunotherapy work in different ways, but they all aim to stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.
Why is it needed?
Immunotherapy is needed because it can be more effective than traditional cancer treatments at destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
Immunotherapy can also help the body build a long-lasting defense against cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Facts and Figures:
Immunotherapy is a rapidly growing area of cancer treatment.
According to the American Cancer Society, immunotherapy is currently used to treat several types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and some types of lymphoma.
Immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in treating some types of cancer, but its effectiveness varies depending on the specific type of cancer and the individual patient.
Risks and Complications:
Like all medical procedures, immunotherapy has some risks and potential complications.
Common side effects of immunotherapy include fatigue, flu-like symptoms, and skin rash.
In some cases, immunotherapy may cause more serious side effects, such as lung inflammation, liver damage, or kidney problems.
Post Operative Preparation:
After the procedure, the patient will be monitored closely for any signs of complications or side effects.
The patient may require medication or other supportive therapies to manage any discomfort or side effects.
In some cases, the patient may need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and adjust their treatment plan as needed.
Preoperative Preparation:
Before the procedure, the patient will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine if they are healthy enough for immunotherapy.
The patient may need to undergo certain tests, such as blood tests or imaging scans, to determine the extent of their cancer and to assess their response to treatment.
Do's, Don'ts and Precautions:
During immunotherapy, the patient should avoid exposing themselves to infections or germs.
The patient should also follow any dietary or lifestyle recommendations from their doctor, such as avoiding certain foods or activities that may exacerbate their symptoms.
It is important for the patient to attend all follow-up appointments and to report any unusual symptoms or side effects to their doctor.