Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses one or more anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth and division.

How Chemotherapy Works

Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells and destroying them. Cancer cells grow and divide quickly, which makes them more sensitive to chemotherapy drugs than normal cells. However, some normal cells, such as hair follicle cells, bone marrow cells, and gut lining cells, also divide quickly and can be affected by chemotherapy.

Types of Chemotherapy

There are several types of chemotherapy, including:

• Adjuvant chemotherapy: given after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy: given before surgery to shrink a tumor and make it easier to remove
• Palliative chemotherapy: given to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with advanced cancer
• Combination chemotherapy: uses two or more drugs to treat cancer
• Targeted therapy: uses drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and division

Administration of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can be administered through:

• Intravenous (IV) infusion: drugs are given directly into a vein
• Oral medication: drugs are taken by mouth in the form of pills or liquids
• Injection: drugs are injected into a muscle or under the skin
• Intra-arterial infusion: drugs are given directly into an artery that supplies blood to the tumor
• Intraperitoneal infusion: drugs are given directly into the abdominal cavity

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Common side effects of chemotherapy include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Mouth sores
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Increased risk of infection
• Anemia
• Nerve damage

Benefits and Risks of Chemotherapy

The benefits of chemotherapy include:

• Killing cancer cells and slowing tumor growth
• Reducing the risk of cancer recurrence
• Relieving symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with advanced cancer

The risks of chemotherapy include:

• Side effects, which can be severe and long-lasting
• Damage to healthy cells and tissues
• Increased risk of infection and bleeding
• Potential for cancer cells to become resistant to chemotherapy drugs

Monitoring and Follow-up During Chemotherapy

Patients undergoing chemotherapy are closely monitored by their healthcare team, which includes:

• Regular blood tests to check for side effects and monitor the effectiveness of treatment
• Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI scans, to monitor tumor size and response to treatment
• Follow-up appointments with the healthcare team to discuss symptoms, side effects, and any concerns

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is chemotherapy?
Treatment using drugs to kill cancer cells.

How is chemotherapy given?
Through injection, orally, or intravenously.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy?
Nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and infection risk.

Can chemotherapy cure cancer?
It can cure some types of cancer.

How long does chemotherapy last?
Varies from weeks to months or years.

Is chemotherapy painful?
The treatment itself is usually not painful.

Can I work during chemotherapy?
Possibly, depending on side effects and type of job.

Will I lose my hair during chemotherapy?
Many people do, but not all.

Are there different types of chemotherapy?
Yes, including adjuvant, neoadjuvant, and palliative.

Can anyone receive chemotherapy?
No, it depends on overall health and cancer type.