Medical Oncology, Hemato - Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant

Medical Oncology is a type of cancer care that uses different types of therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. This type of treatment works effectively when combined with other types of cancer therapies such as radiation and surgical oncology.

There are different types of treatments used in medical oncology. These include -

Chemotherapy - This involves using different types of drugs for cancer treatment that work towards stopping or slowing down their growth. This type of therapy is generally used to treat recurrent or metastatic cancers (cancer cells that spread to other parts of the body). Chemotherapy drugs are usually administered orally, intravenously or injected directly into the fluid surrounding the brain or the abdominal cavity.

Hormone Therapy - Hormone-dependent or hormone-sensitive cancers are treated using this therapy. Hormone cancers usually use hormones for their growth. Cancers such as breast and ovarian cancers are typical examples of hormone cancers. Therefore, hormone therapy uses medicines to stop or decrease the production of hormones in the body and stops the growth of cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy - This is an advanced cancer treatment that uses drugs to target the specific proteins and genes related to cancer growth. These drugs stop or restrict the spread of cancer cells inside the body.

Immunotherapy - It is an innovative medical oncological procedure that uses the body’s immune cells to restrict the growth of cancer cells. In this procedure, the body’s immune mechanism is activated to destroy the infected cells and improve the functioning of the immune system.

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs or medications to destroy cancer cells. It is one of the main types of cancer treatment.

No, chemotherapy is usually not painful. However, some people may experience side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

During chemotherapy, you may experience side effects such as loss of appetite, fatigue, and nausea. You may also experience other side effects, such as hair loss, mouth sores, and skin changes.

The frequency of chemotherapy treatments varies depending on the type of cancer and other factors. Generally, chemotherapy treatments are given every 2 to 3 weeks.

There are several ways to manage the side effects of chemotherapy. These include keeping a regular schedule for eating, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding fatiguing activities.

The long-term effects of chemotherapy vary depending on the type of cancer, the individual, and other factors. Possible long-term effects include fatigue, cognitive changes, nerve damage, and organ damage.

Chemotherapy can affect your daily life in several ways. For example, you may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects. You may also find it challenging to work or take part in activities you used to enjoy.

Patients should contact their healthcare team

There can be various long-term effects from an allogeneic transplant, including increased risk of infection, fertility issues, and late-onset organ damage. Patients must discuss these risks with their doctor before transplant.

Allogeneic transplant patients must make lifestyle changes to help maximize their chances of a successful transplant. This may include quitting smoking, regular exercise, avoiding certain foods or medications, and staying up-to-date on immunizations.

The cost of an allogeneic transplant varies depending on the specific procedure and the patient's insurance coverage. Generally, the costs can range from tens of thousands of rupees to hundreds.

GVHD can be prevented with immunosuppressant medications and regular monitoring by a doctor.

Allogeneic transplants can cause a range of severe side effects, including infection, bleeding, graft-versus-host disease, and organ damage. There is also the potential risk of the transplant being unsuccessful.

The likelihood of finding a suitable donor depends on many factors, including the patient's age, ethnicity, and family history. Additionally, the closer the donor is related to the patient, the higher the chances of finding a compatible match.

An allogeneic transplant is a type of stem cell transplant, where stem cells are donated by another person, usually a close family member.

Autologous Transplants are different from other types of transplant procedures in that they are done with a person’s own cells, tissues, or organs, usually due to cancer or other diseases. Other types of transplants may involve donor tissues or organs.

Preparing for an Autologous Transplant involves several steps. These can include giving informed consent, having blood and other lab tests to ensure compatibility, and discussing any medications, lifestyle changes, or diet modifications with your doctor.

You should follow your doctor’s instructions for when and how to resume activities. Generally, a return to activities can usually occur after a few weeks or months, but this varies depending on your individual situation. 

Your doctor will monitor your outcome to determine if the Autologous Transplant was successful. They may also use imaging or other laboratory tests to measure your progress.

Generally, an Autologous Transplant has minimal side effects that last a few weeks after the procedure. Rarely, there is the risk of complications that can last longer, such as infection or organ dysfunction. 

The time taken for an Autologous Transplant varies depending on the type of cells and tissues being used and the specific disease or medical condition being treated. Generally, the procedure can take up to three weeks or longer.

Autologous Transplant is done to replace damaged or missing cells and tissues as a result of cancer or other diseases. It can also improve a patient’s quality of life or reduce the side effects of certain treatments.

Immunotherapy is a type of medical treatment that aids your immune system fight cancer and other diseases. It can also be used to reduce the side effects of certain treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy strengthens or reprograms your immune system to recognize and fight off cancer or other diseases. Immunotherapy can involve drugs, biological therapies using antibodies, or vaccines.

Immunotherapy is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for many conditions. However, like any medical treatment, it can have side effects. Talking with your doctor about all risks and potential side effects is important.

The frequency of immunotherapy is determined by the type of condition being treated and your individual health needs.

No, immunotherapy is not the same as a vaccine. Vaccines are designed to prevent a disease, while immunotherapy is used to treat a disease.

Yes, immunotherapy is often used along with other treatments for cancers, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Immunotherapy is available at some hospitals and cancer treatment centres. You must speak with your healthcare expert to check if immunotherapy is available at your local hospital.