Chemotherapy

Definition

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is often part of a broader treatment plan that may include surgery and radiation. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which is why it can also affect healthy cells, leading to various side effects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chemotherapy can be used as a primary treatment for cancer, to shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy), or to eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery (adjuvant therapy).
2. The specific drugs used in chemotherapy can vary widely depending on the type of cancer being treated and how far it has progressed.
3. Patients may receive chemotherapy in cycles, allowing time for their bodies to recover between doses, and treatment plans are often tailored to each individual's needs.
4. Not all cancers respond to chemotherapy, and some types are more resistant than others, making it crucial for oncologists to monitor the treatment's effectiveness.
5. Advancements in targeted therapies aim to minimize the side effects of chemotherapy by specifically targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy cells.

Review Questions

• How does chemotherapy work in the treatment of cancer and what are some common strategies for its use?
  • Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which is a hallmark of cancer. It can be used as a primary treatment to shrink tumors, as neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to make tumors easier to remove, or as adjuvant therapy after surgery to eliminate any leftover cancer cells. The choice of when and how to use chemotherapy depends on the specific type of cancer and its stage.
• What are some common side effects associated with chemotherapy and how do they impact patient quality of life?
  • Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection due to its impact on healthy cells. These side effects can significantly affect a patient's quality of life during treatment. Managing these symptoms is crucial, as it helps patients maintain their strength and well-being while undergoing a challenging treatment process.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of chemotherapy compared to newer treatments like immunotherapy in the management of certain cancers.
  • Chemotherapy has been a cornerstone in cancer treatment for decades, but newer treatments like immunotherapy have emerged as effective alternatives for some types of cancer. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells, which can lead to fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. While chemotherapy remains effective for many cancers, especially those that are aggressive and fast-growing, immunotherapy offers hope for patients with cancers that are resistant to conventional treatments. Evaluating the best treatment approach depends on individual patient factors and the specific characteristics of their cancer.

Related terms

Radiation Therapy: A cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells, often used in conjunction with chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy: A treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer by using substances made by the body or in a lab to boost the body's natural defenses.

Side Effects: Unintended symptoms or reactions caused by chemotherapy, which can include nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection.