The need for viable and effective cancer treatment options has spurred the research and development of multiple strategies for helping patients achieve favorable outcomes and potential remission. The most common types of treatments that medical oncology offers are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. An oncologist will make a treatment recommendation depending on the type of cancer a patient has and its stage.
Surgery
A surgical operation can be used to diagnose, stage, prevent, and treat cancer. During a diagnosis, the doctor often carries out a biopsy to know what type of cancer the patient has and how far it has advanced. Surgery is most commonly used when cancer has not spread throughout the body. In this case, the surgeon has a higher success rate of removing or eliminating cancer. Working with the best oncologic team can assist in managing the condition well.
Chemotherapy
This treatment involves the use of drugs to treat cancer throughout the body. Chemo is prescribed for nearly all cancers—from solid tumors to hematologic malignancies. The doctor is responsible for determining what drugs or drug combinations to use. Factors to consider when choosing drugs include the type and stage of cancer, patient’s age and overall health, and any prior cancer treatments.
Radiation Therapy
Also known as radiotherapy, radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy particles to destroy or damage cancer cells. It can be used to slow cancer growth, cure it, or stop it from returning. There are two options for radiation—external beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. It may take days or weeks to see the effects of radiation therapy. It can be recommended for different types of cancer such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. Consult the best oncologist to see if this type of treatment is right for you.
Targeted Therapy
Medical oncology researchers are continuing to find new changes in cancer cells that help them create more effective therapies for patients. In this treatment option, an oncologist targets specific vulnerabilities of cancer cells. First oncologists need to determine specific profiles of the cancer/tumor and whether there is a targeted agent that will work. Most therapies are either monoclonal antibodies, drugs that attach to the outer surface of the cells, or small-molecule drugs that can penetrate cells easily.
Immunotherapy
This type of cancer treatment supports the immune system to fight cancer. It works by marking cancer cells so that the immune system can find and destroy them. There are different types of immunotherapy including monoclonal antibodies, adoptive cell transfer, cytokines, treatment vaccines, and BCG treatment. Medical oncology professionals are still studying more options in clinical trials.
Medical Oncology Researchers have continually worked to develop more cancer treatments to reduce mortality rates, curb symptoms, and even cure cancer. Patients are always advised to work with the best oncologist to ensure the right treatment results, but it is important to note that all cases are different.