Cancer treatment
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medicines that help the body’s own immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.
Quick answer
Immunotherapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Cancer immunotherapy is a group of treatments that boost or restore the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. Common types include checkpoint inhibitors, which take the brakes off immune cells.
- Why it is done: It is used for a growing number of cancers, such as melanoma, lung, kidney and bladder cancers, either alone or with other treatments, to shrink tumours and improve survival.
- What happens: It is usually given as a drip (infusion) into a vein, sometimes as an injection, in cycles over weeks or months in a chemotherapy or oncology unit.
What it is
Cancer immunotherapy is a group of treatments that boost or restore the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. Common types include checkpoint inhibitors, which take the brakes off immune cells.
Why it is done
It is used for a growing number of cancers, such as melanoma, lung, kidney and bladder cancers, either alone or with other treatments, to shrink tumours and improve survival.
What happens
It is usually given as a drip (infusion) into a vein, sometimes as an injection, in cycles over weeks or months in a chemotherapy or oncology unit. Treatment is planned and monitored by a specialist team.
Recovery
You continue everyday life around treatment cycles, with regular check-ups and blood tests. Response is monitored with scans, and treatment may continue for months depending on how the cancer responds.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Because it activates the immune system, side effects can include inflammation of organs such as the bowel, skin, glands or lungs, which need prompt treatment. Not all cancers or people respond.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Immunotherapy: frequently asked questions
How is immunotherapy different from chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy directly kills fast-dividing cells, while immunotherapy helps your immune system attack the cancer. They work differently, have different side effects, and are sometimes used together.
What side effects should I watch for?
Because it revs up the immune system, immunotherapy can cause inflammation anywhere in the body — for example diarrhoea, rashes, breathlessness or gland problems. Report new symptoms promptly, as early treatment is important.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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