Blogs

Difference between Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy

Cancer treatment has evolved significantly over the years, with various approaches aimed at targeting and eradicating cancer cells. Two of the most commonly discussed methods are immunotherapy and chemotherapy. While both aim to treat cancer, they function in fundamentally different ways. 

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a traditional cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. It works by targeting and destroying cells that divide quickly, a characteristic of many cancer types. Chemotherapy can be administered in various ways, including intravenously (IV), orally, or via injection, and is often used as a primary treatment or adjuvant therapy following surgery.

How Chemotherapy Works

• Mechanism: Chemotherapy drugs work by interfering with the cancer cell’s ability to grow and divide. Some drugs target the DNA of cancer cells, while others inhibit the proteins needed for cell division.
• Target Cells: Chemotherapy is not specific to cancer cells; it can also affect normal cells that divide quickly, such as those in the hair follicles, digestive tract, and bone marrow.

Common Uses of Chemotherapy

• Curative Treatment: Used with the goal of eliminating cancer.
• Adjuvant Therapy: Given after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
• Palliative Care: Helps relieve symptoms in advanced-stage cancer.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

While chemotherapy can be effective, it is associated with a range of side effects, including:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Mouth sores
• Changes in appetite

These side effects result from the damage to normal, healthy cells that also divide rapidly.

What is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a newer approach that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Instead of targeting cancer cells directly, immunotherapy aims to enhance the body’s natural defenses against cancer. This treatment has shown promise for various cancer types and can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments like chemotherapy.

How Immunotherapy Works

• Mechanism: Immunotherapy stimulates or enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. It can involve the use of monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, or cytokines.
• Target Cells: Immunotherapy specifically targets components of the immune system, enabling it to identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

Common Types of Immunotherapy

• Monoclonal Antibodies: Lab-made antibodies that can bind to specific cancer cell markers.
• Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs that help the immune system recognize cancer cells by blocking proteins that prevent T-cells from attacking.
• Cancer Vaccines: Vaccines that stimulate the immune response against specific cancer types.
• CAR-T Cell Therapy: A personalized treatment that modifies a patient’s T-cells to better attack cancer.

Side Effects of Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy can also cause side effects, but they may differ from those of chemotherapy. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Diarrhea
• Autoimmune reactions (where the immune system attacks healthy tissues)

Key Differences Between Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy

Conclusion

Both chemotherapy and immunotherapy play essential roles in cancer treatment, and the choice between them depends on various factors, including the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health. Chemotherapy has been a cornerstone of cancer treatment for decades, while immunotherapy represents a promising advancement in harnessing the body’s immune system to combat cancer more effectively.

It’s crucial for patients to discuss with their oncologists the best treatment options tailored to their individual needs. As research continues to evolve, the landscape of cancer treatment will likely expand, offering more personalized and effective options for those battling this complex disease.