Immmunotherapy

About

Immunotherapy is an advanced form of treatment that uses the patient’s own immune system to fight diseases, particularly cancer. Unlike traditional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation, which directly attack cancer cells, immunotherapy stimulates the immune system to recognize and destroy malignant cells. This therapy includes various approaches, such as monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, T-cell-based therapies, and cancer vaccines.

Candidate

Candidates for immunotherapy are typically patients with advanced stages of cancer or those for whom other therapies have been ineffective. Immunotherapy is particularly recommended for certain types of tumors, such as melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and some forms of lymphoma. Before starting therapy, the doctor will evaluate the specific characteristics of the tumor and the patient's overall health to determine if immunotherapy is an appropriate approach.

Preparation

Preparation for immunotherapy involves a series of tests aimed at understanding the specific molecular and immunological characteristics of the tumor. Depending on the type of immunotherapy, the patient may undergo a tumor biopsy, blood tests, and imaging studies to gather all necessary information. The patient should also be informed about potential side effects and the treatment course.

Treatment

Meeting with the doctor before immunotherapy is crucial to setting expectations and understanding the process. The doctor will explain how the therapy works, how long it will last, and what potential side effects may occur. The patient will also be advised on regular check-ups and monitoring the response to therapy.

Result

Results of immunotherapy can vary depending on the type of cancer, stage of the disease, and individual immune response. For some patients, immunotherapy can lead to complete tumor regression, while for others, it may slow disease progression or improve the quality of life. It is important to note that immunotherapy does not work equally for everyone, and results often appear gradually.

Precautions

Precautions during immunotherapy include careful monitoring for potential side effects, which may include inflammatory reactions, fatigue, skin changes, or organ function issues. Patients should maintain close communication with their doctor to promptly identify and treat any complications. Additionally, patients should be aware that immunotherapy can cause long-term changes in the immune system, requiring ongoing monitoring even after treatment ends.

Ivana, Patient Coordinator

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Ivana, ZagrebMed patient coordinator