What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a type of
cancer treatment that utilizes the body's immune system to fight cancer. Unlike traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, which directly target cancer cells, immunotherapy aims to boost or restore the immune system's natural ability to detect and destroy cancer cells.
How Does Immunotherapy Work?
Immunotherapy works through several mechanisms. One approach is to stimulate the immune system to work harder or smarter in attacking cancer cells. Another approach is to provide the immune system with components, like
monoclonal antibodies, which can directly target cancer cells. Additionally,
checkpoint inhibitors are a type of immunotherapy that blocks proteins that prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells effectively.
Types of Immunotherapy
There are several types of immunotherapy used in cancer treatment:What are Corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that are commonly used in cancer treatment to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They are often used to manage side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, as well as to treat certain cancer-related conditions.
How Do Corticosteroids Work?
Corticosteroids work by mimicking the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in the adrenal glands. They reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, which can help alleviate symptoms such as swelling, pain, and allergic reactions. In the context of cancer, they are also used to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy.
To reduce inflammation and swelling around tumors
To manage side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
To treat certain cancers directly, such as
lymphomas and
leukemias To improve appetite and reduce nausea
Can Corticosteroids Be Used Alongside Immunotherapy?
Yes, corticosteroids can be used alongside immunotherapy, but with caution. While corticosteroids can help manage side effects of immunotherapy, they can also suppress the immune response, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the immunotherapy. Therefore, the use of corticosteroids is carefully balanced and monitored by healthcare providers.
Side Effects of Immunotherapy
While immunotherapy can be very effective, it is not without side effects. Some common side effects include: Fatigue
Skin reactions
Flu-like symptoms
Digestive issues
Autoimmune reactions
Side Effects of Corticosteroids
Common side effects of corticosteroids include: Increased appetite
Weight gain
Insomnia
Mood swings
High blood pressure
Increased risk of infections
Conclusion
Both immunotherapy and corticosteroids play crucial roles in the treatment of cancer. While immunotherapy leverages the body's own immune system to fight cancer, corticosteroids are used to manage symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and its treatments. Understanding the benefits and potential risks of these therapies can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about cancer treatment options.
