Immunotherapy 101
Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer care; it utilizes the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. Since the first FDA approval of immunotherapy in 2011, we have come a long way with this option being available for different cancers. Future clinical trials hold the promise of improving patient’s lives and decreasing side effects of treatments. Dr. Srilata Gundala discusses common questions about this innovative treatment.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a biological therapy, a treatment that uses substances made from living organisms, that helps your immune system fight off cancer.
How does immunotherapy work?
Depending on the cancer, some cancer cells are able to “hide” from your immune system. Immunotherapy can work in one of two ways: mark the “hiding” cancer cells or boost your overall immune system. If your therapy helps mark cancer cells it will better help your body identify the “bad cells” and therefore fight them off. Your medical provider will help you find the best immunotherapy for you.
What types of cancers can immunotherapy help with?
Immunotherapy is not as widely used as your “normal” cancer treatments: chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, but is now gaining greater experience in various kinds of cancer. Your medical provider can help you choose the best treatment for your health from one of the several therapies or therapy trials.
What are the benefits of immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy benefits you by providing another treatment option in the fight against cancer. There are also fewer side effects with this treatment because it’s targeting your immune system; this will also be beneficial in teaching your body what cells to fight off.
What are the risks and side effects of immunotherapy?
The most common side effects: pain, swelling, soreness, redness, itchiness and rash. You also may experience “flu-like” symptoms, weight gain, sinus congestion, heart palpitations and organ inflammation. Ask your medical provider any specific questions you have and communicate with them if something feels “off.”
When would you offer immunotherapy to your patient?
Immunotherapy has been approved in a number of tumor types in the last few years. The choice of the immunotherapy depends on the primary location, stage and the presence of biomarkers. I offer these therapies based on all of these factors in an evidence based manner. The goal is also to provide a very personalized approach for each and every patient.
If you’re interested in learning more about immunotherapy being apart of your treatment plan, discuss it with your oncologist or call 630-560-0121 to book an appointment.
Written by: Carolyn Reece, MSDM
Reviewed by: Srilata Gundala, MD
