Immunotherapy: treatment that activates your defenses against cancer

How it works

The most widely used medicines are the so-called immune checkpoint inhibitors. "Checkpoints" are like natural brakes on the immune system; some tumors activate them so your defenses will not attack. These medicines release that brake and let your defenses act against the tumor again.

Unlike chemotherapy, immunotherapy does not attack the cancer cell directly: it strengthens or reactivates your body's own response. It is not right for every type of cancer or every patient; the oncologist determines whether a case is a candidate, sometimes based on special tests of the tumor (biomarkers).

Sources: NCI, "Immunotherapy to Treat Cancer": https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/tratamiento/tipos/inmunoterapia · NCI, immunotherapy research: https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/investigacion/areas/tratamiento/inmunoterapia

Which types of cancer it is usually used for

• Its use has grown in recent years. Common examples: melanoma, cancers of the lung, kidney, and bladder, some lymphomas, some head and neck cancers, and certain gynecologic tumors (for example, endometrium or cervix in specific situations).
• It does not automatically replace other treatments: it is often combined with chemotherapy or other medicines.
• Whether it is indicated depends on the tumor type, its stage and, frequently, on biomarker tests performed on the biopsy. The unit performs biopsies and coordinates the studies needed to know whether a patient is a candidate.

What receiving this treatment at the unit is like

• How it is given: usually intravenously, in outpatient sessions similar to chemotherapy.
• Session length: commonly 30 to 90 minutes.
• How often: depending on the medicine, every 2, 3, 4, or 6 weeks. The oncologist defines the total length of treatment based on your response.
• Follow-up: your response is monitored with imaging studies and regular visits.

Common side effects and how we help you through them

• The most common: tiredness, skin reactions (itching, rash), flu-like symptoms, diarrhea.
• By "switching on" your defenses, in some cases the immune system can inflame healthy organs (thyroid, gut, lung, liver). That is why close medical follow-up is an essential part of this treatment: catching and treating these reactions early keeps them under control in the great majority of cases.
• It is important to tell the team about any new symptom, even if it seems minor. The unit gives clear instructions about warning signs at every visit.
• Source: NCI, "Immunotherapy to Treat Cancer" (side effects section): https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/tratamiento/tipos/inmunoterapia

Frequently asked questions

Is immunotherapy the same as chemotherapy? No. Chemotherapy directly attacks cells that divide quickly; immunotherapy helps your own defenses recognize and fight the tumor. Their side effects and the way they are monitored are also different.

Can any cancer patient receive immunotherapy? No. It works in certain types of cancer and in certain patients, often depending on special tests of the tumor. The medical oncologist evaluates each case; come in for an evaluation to find out whether it is an option for you.

How long does immunotherapy treatment last? It varies a lot: from a few months up to one or two years, depending on the medicine, the goal of treatment, and your response. Your oncologist will define the plan and adjust it with you.

Used in the treatment of