Adjuvant chemotherapy

Adjuvant chemotherapy is a form of cancer treatment that is used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy, to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment plan. It is typically administered after the primary treatment to kill any remaining cancer cells that may not have been removed during the initial treatment.

Overview

The primary goal of adjuvant chemotherapy is to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence by eliminating any cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. This is particularly important in cases where the cancer is aggressive or has a high risk of recurrence. Adjuvant chemotherapy can be used in the treatment of many types of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, and ovarian cancer.

Treatment Process

The specific drugs used in adjuvant chemotherapy vary depending on the type of cancer and the individual patient's health status. The treatment typically involves a series of chemotherapy sessions, which are usually given in cycles over a period of several months. The drugs can be administered intravenously, orally, or through a combination of both methods.

Side Effects

Like all forms of chemotherapy, adjuvant chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection due to a weakened immune system. The severity of these side effects can vary widely from patient to patient, and they can often be managed with the help of supportive care measures.

Efficacy

The efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy is dependent on a variety of factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the overall health of the patient, and the specific drugs used. In many cases, adjuvant chemotherapy has been shown to significantly improve survival rates and reduce the risk of recurrence.

See Also

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy
• Cancer treatment
• Chemotherapy

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