Immunotherapy in Oncology

Immunotherapy is a kind of treatment used in oncology, the medical field that pertains to cancer. Also known as biotherapy, immunotherapy consists of using the immune system--the body's natural defenses--to destroy the cancer.

Types

• Immunotherapies are categorized as active or passive. Active immunotherapies, such as cancer vaccines, trigger a natural immunological response in order to destroy cancer cells.

  Passive immunotherapy uses man-made immunological components to attack the cancer. The most commonly used cancer immunotherapy, monoclonal antibody therapy, is considered passive.

Function

• Immunotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments to improve their effectiveness. Some immunotherapies target only certain kinds of cancer cells and can be joined with other cancer-fighting substances for a targeted delivery. These are known as specific immunotherapies. Non-specific immunotherapies boost the overall response of the immune system.

Benefits

• Immunotherapy is most successful in the treatment of small, early-stage cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. It may prevent normal and precancerous cells from becoming cancerous and may prevent the cancer from spreading. Immunotherapy is potentially less toxic than other treatments and is also used to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Side Effects

• The side effects of immunotherapy vary and include fever, chills and fatigue. Patients may also experience nausea, vomiting and appetite loss.