Chemotherapy & Systemic Therapy
Systemic cancer treatment using powerful medications to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells. Because cancer cells grow and divide faster than most normal cells, chemotherapy is highly effective at targeting them. It can be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy (known as chemoradiation) for enhanced effectiveness. Dr. Rahul DL works closely in a multidisciplinary tumor board with medical oncologists to design comprehensive treatment plans that may include concurrent chemoradiation, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (before radiation), or adjuvant chemotherapy (after radiation) based on individual patient needs.
Benefits of Chemotherapy
- ✓ Treats cancer throughout the entire body (systemic treatment), catching microscopic spread
- ✓ Enhances the effectiveness of radiation therapy when used concurrently
- ✓ Can shrink massive tumors before surgery or radiation (neoadjuvant)
- ✓ Multiple drug combinations available tailored to specific tumor genetics
- ✓ Destroys hidden cancer cells remaining after surgery (adjuvant)
How Chemotherapy Works
Chemotherapy drugs are administered through various routes — intravenously (IV), orally as pills, or via injections. These drugs travel through the bloodstream to reach and attack cancer cells everywhere in the body. Treatment is given in 'cycles', which include a period of treatment followed by a period of rest to allow healthy cells to recover.
Suitable For
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is chemotherapy often given at the same time as radiation?
Certain chemotherapy drugs act as 'radiosensitizers'. They make the cancer cells more vulnerable to the effects of the radiation therapy, resulting in a much higher cure rate than using either treatment alone.
Will I definitely lose my hair?
Not necessarily. Hair loss depends entirely on the specific chemotherapy drugs prescribed. Many modern targeted therapies and some traditional chemotherapies do not cause hair loss at all.
How will I feel during chemotherapy?
Side effects vary widely from person to person and depend on the drugs used. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and lowered immunity. Today, we have excellent supportive medications that manage nausea and other side effects very effectively.
Get Chemotherapy Treatment in Hyderabad
Consult Dr. Rahul DL for expert Chemotherapy treatment at Apollo Hospital.