What cells are damaged most by chemotherapy treatment?

Cancer cells are the primary target of chemotherapy treatment. However, chemotherapy drugs can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects such as hair loss, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

Here are some types of cells that are particularly vulnerable to chemotherapy treatment:

1. Rapidly dividing cells: Chemotherapy drugs work by damaging DNA and preventing cells from dividing and multiplying. Rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells and cells in the bone marrow, hair follicles, and gastrointestinal tract, are more susceptible to these drugs.

2. Stem cells: Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into various types of cells. While chemotherapy can target cancer stem cells, it can also affect healthy stem cells, leading to side effects such as bone marrow suppression and hair loss.

3. Immune cells: Chemotherapy drugs can weaken the immune system by reducing the number of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections. This can increase the risk of infections and make it harder for the body to recover from treatment.

4. Reproductive cells: Chemotherapy can damage reproductive cells in both men and women, potentially leading to infertility. The effects of chemotherapy on fertility can vary depending on the type of drugs used and the individual's age and overall health.

It's important to note that chemotherapy is a systemic treatment, meaning it circulates throughout the body and can affect healthy cells in addition to cancer cells. Therefore, doctors carefully monitor patients undergoing chemotherapy to manage side effects and ensure the best possible outcomes.