Definition of Chemotherapy:
The term chemotherapy refers to a type of medical treatment that involves using powerful drugs to kill or slow down the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Subtypes of Chemotherapy:
- Adjuvant chemotherapy: A type of chemotherapy given after the primary treatment, such as surgery, to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Neoadjuvant chemotherapy: A type of chemotherapy given before the primary treatment, often surgery or radiation therapy, to shrink large tumors and make them easier to remove or treat.
- Palliative chemotherapy: A type of chemotherapy used to relieve symptoms, manage pain, and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer.
Administration of Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy drugs can be administered through various methods, including:
- Intravenous (IV) chemotherapy: Drugs are injected directly into a vein, allowing them to enter the bloodstream rapidly.
- Oral chemotherapy: Drugs are taken in the form of pills, capsules, or liquid, and are absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system.
- Topical chemotherapy: Creams, gels, or ointments containing chemotherapy drugs are applied directly to the skin to treat certain types of cancer.
- Intrathecal chemotherapy: Drugs are injected into the cerebrospinal fluid via a needle inserted into the spinal column, to treat cancer that has spread to the central nervous system.
Side Effects of Chemotherapy:
While chemotherapy is highly effective in treating cancer, it can also lead to various side effects due to its impact on both cancerous and healthy cells. Common side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting: Chemotherapy drugs can irritate the stomach lining, leading to feelings of nausea and potential vomiting.
- Hair loss: Many chemotherapy drugs can cause hair follicles to become damaged, resulting in partial or complete hair loss.
- Fatigue: Chemotherapy can cause significant fatigue and tiredness, often impacting the patient’s energy levels and daily activities.
- Suppressed immune system: The drugs used in chemotherapy can lower the body’s immune response, increasing the risk of infections.
- Loss of appetite: Some chemotherapy medications can affect the sense of taste, leading to a decreased appetite or changes in food preferences.