Chemotherapy

Definition

Chemotherapy is the use of chemical substances to treat diseases, particularly cancer and infections. It often targets rapidly dividing cells, including pathogens and malignant cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Paul Ehrlich is credited with coining the term 'chemotherapy' in the early 20th century.
2. Chemotherapeutic agents can include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and anticancer drugs.
3. The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 marked a significant milestone in the development of antimicrobial chemotherapy.
4. Immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to infections and may require chemotherapeutic intervention to prevent or treat these infections.
5. Common side effects of chemotherapy include immunosuppression, which can make patients vulnerable to secondary infections.

Review Questions

• Who coined the term 'chemotherapy' and what was its original context?
• What types of diseases are commonly treated with chemotherapeutic agents?
• Why are immunocompromised individuals at higher risk for infections during chemotherapy?

Related terms

Antibiotics:

Drugs used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting bacteria.

Immunodeficiency: A state where the immune system's ability to fight infectious disease is compromised or entirely absent.

Antimicrobial Resistance:

The ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of medication previously effective against them.