What is the treatment of choice for neoplasms?

Surgery is the treatment of choice for most neoplasms. The goal of surgery is to remove the entire tumor, including any surrounding tissue that may be affected. In some cases, surgery may be combined with other treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before surgery (to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove), after surgery (to kill any remaining cancer cells), or as a standalone treatment.

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given intravenously (through a vein), orally (by mouth), or topically (applied to the skin). Chemotherapy may be used before surgery, after surgery, or as a standalone treatment.

Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy drugs may be given intravenously or orally. Immunotherapy may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments.

Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy drugs may be given intravenously or orally. Targeted therapy may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments.

Hormone therapy uses drugs to block the effects of hormones that can promote the growth of certain types of cancer. Hormone therapy drugs may be given orally, intravenously, or as a topical cream or gel. Hormone therapy may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments.

Other treatments for neoplasms include cryosurgery (freezing the tumor), laser surgery, electrocautery (burning the tumor), and photodynamic therapy (using light to activate a drug that kills cancer cells).