Chemotherapy Management

Chemotherapy is a fundamental therapeutic strategy in the fight against cancer, aiming not only to destroy cancer cells, but also to stop their spread in the patient's body. This process uses highly effective chemicals that are specifically toxic to cancer cells. These substances target tumor cells and prevent their further growth and metastasis. A less well-known effect of chemotherapy is the suppression of suppressive populations of immune system cells. What does it mean? Yes, some cells of the immune system go to the side of the tumor, so to speak, and start protecting it from effector cells, the so-called killers. These cells are then called suppressor cells by a broader term, because they suppress, dampen or suppress the immune system's effective fight against tumor cells. Despite the high potential of this method, it is necessary to carefully balance the effectiveness and possible side effects in order to maximize the therapeutic effect while minimizing the negative impact on the patient's health. Despite the challenges that can be associated with it, it is important to remember that the side effects are temporary and the fight that patients and their doctors are fighting is a fight for life.

What is chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is an essential tool in the fight against cancer, which has a significant impact on the treatment and well-being of patients. Its main goal is often to cure the patient, which is achieved by completely destroying the cancer cells in the body. In cases where the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, chemotherapy can be part of the curative treatment in order to achieve a complete remission of the disease.

Chemotherapy drugs are designed to target and destroy cancer cells, causing tumors to shrink or disappear altogether. This process is crucial in preparing the patient for surgery or other medical procedures by reducing the size of the tumor and making it easier to remove. Chemotherapy can work throughout the body, preventing cancer cells from spreading to new areas and is invaluable in treating or preventing metastases.

Even in cases where cancer cannot be completely cured, chemotherapy can significantly slow tumor growth and cancer spread, which can buy patients time and improve their quality of life. In addition, chemotherapy can help relieve pain and other symptoms caused by the tumor, improving patients' well-being and greatly improving patients' quality of life by relieving symptoms.

But chemotherapy doesn't just affect cancer cells, it can also damage healthy cells, especially those that divide quickly, such as bone marrow cells, hair follicles, and cells in the mouth and digestive tract. This action on healthy cells is responsible for many of the side effects associated with chemotherapy.

Differences between targeted and classical chemotherapy

Classical chemotherapy nonspecifically attacks rapidly dividing cells, including some healthy cells, leading to characteristic side effects such as hair loss and mucosal damage.

Targeted chemotherapy targets specific targets (proteins or gene pathways) in cancer cells, reducing damage to healthy cells and potential side effects. These therapies are designed to target specific molecular signatures of cancer.

How does chemotherapy work?

Chemotherapy is based on the principle of a targeted attack on rapidly dividing cells, which is a characteristic feature of many types of cancer. In this process, chemotherapeutic substances are used, which aim to disrupt the cell cycle or directly damage the DNA in cancer cells. In this way, chemotherapy prevents cancer cells from their ability to divide and multiply, leading to a halt in their growth or even their death.

The effectiveness of chemotherapy depends on many factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the genetic characteristics of the cancer cells. Choosing the right chemotherapy regimen is crucial and requires a comprehensive evaluation of all available information about the patient and his illness.

Factors influencing the choice of chemotherapy

Choosing chemotherapy for a patient is a complex process that takes into account several factors. These factors are key to determining the most appropriate treatment regimen that will be most effective for the patient and at the same time with the least possible side effects.

The type and stage of cancer affect the choice of chemotherapy because different types and stages of cancer are sensitive to different chemotherapy drugs. Some types of cancer require a combination of drugs.

The patient's health status, including age, presence of concomitant diseases and general condition, is an important factor in the choice of chemotherapy. It is necessary to consider the potential increased risk of side effects and the patient's ability to tolerate the treatment.

History of previous cancer treatment, including response to chemotherapy or other therapies, may influence the choice of next treatment regimen.

Genetic tumor testing can reveal specific mutations or biomarkers that are targets for certain types of chemotherapy or targeted therapy. The choice of treatment based on the molecular profile of the tumor can significantly increase its effectiveness.

Availability of specific chemotherapeutic drugs and the financial possibilities of the patient also influence the choice of chemotherapy. Sometimes access to the latest drugs or health insurance options can be decisive factors.

The goal of choosing chemotherapy is to choose the most suitable treatment regimen for the patient, which will be maximally effective and with minimal side effects.

Importance of genetic testing and biomarkers

Genetic testing and biomarker identification play a key role in modern chemotherapy management. Genetic tests can identify specific mutations or characteristics of cancer cells that may be sensitive to certain chemotherapy drugs or targeted therapies. An example is a mutation in the EGFR gene in some forms of lung cancer, where patients with this mutation are more sensitive to certain targeted therapeutics.

Biomarkers such as HER2 in breast cancer or BCR-ABL in chronic myeloid leukemia allow doctors to choose more targeted and effective treatment strategies. Thanks to this, it is possible to personalize the treatment based on the molecular profile of the tumor, which leads to better treatment results and reduced side effects.

In this way, genetic testing and biomarkers enable more precise and targeted approaches to cancer treatment, representing a promising step towards personalized medicine in oncology.

The course of chemotherapy

Before starting chemotherapy, it is necessary to carry out a series of preliminary examinations and tests to assess the patient's overall health and the specific characteristics of his cancer. These tests may include blood tests, imaging such as CT or MRI, and biopsies to help determine the most appropriate treatment regimen. The tests will also reveal any potential risks or contraindications for chemotherapy.

Length and course of treatment

The length of chemotherapy treatment can vary significantly. Treatment can last from several months to several years, depending on the goals of treatment (curative or palliative) and the patient's response to treatment. Chemotherapy cycles, the period between doses, are often scheduled at weekly, biweekly or monthly intervals to allow the body to recover between treatments.

Chemotherapy is often organized into series or cycles, with each cycle typically involving periods of active treatment followed by a typically three-week break. This pause allows the body to regenerate and restore healthy cells in various organs and tissues.

After the start of chemotherapy, it is essential to adhere to the recommended treatment plan and maintain the set time intervals between individual doses of treatment. Following these recommendations is key to maximizing the effectiveness of treatment and achieving the best possible results.

Outpatient versus inpatient administration

The decision between outpatient and inpatient administration of chemotherapy depends on the type of treatment, the duration of administration and the needs of the patient. Outpatient administration allows patients to spend less time in the hospital, while inpatient administration may be necessary for more complex or intensive treatment regimens.

At the initialization of chemotherapy, at least a short stay in the hospital is often preferred, which allows the doctor to immediately monitor reactions to the treatment and, if necessary, proceed with its adjustment.

Methods of drug administration

Chemotherapy drugs can be administered in a variety of ways, including intravenous (directly into a vein), oral (in tablet or liquid form by mouth), subcutaneous (under the skin), intramuscular (into a muscle), or directly into the affected area, such as intraperitoneally (into the abdominal cavity) or intrathecally (into the spinal fluid ). The choice of delivery method depends on the type of cancer, the specific chemotherapy drug and the overall health of the patient, with each method aiming to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment while minimizing side effects.

Monitoring the course of treatment

Controls and monitoring are an integral part of chemotherapy treatment, ensuring that the treatment is not only effective, but also as safe as possible for the patient. Throughout the course of chemotherapy, a series of examinations and monitoring processes are performed to record the patient's response to treatment, identify and manage potential side effects, and possibly adjust the treatment plan.

During the course of treatment, blood tests, including a complete blood count, biochemical tests and organ function tests (e.g. liver tests, kidney function tests), are the basis of monitoring. These tests provide information about how chemotherapy affects the patient's body and his health.

Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, PET scans and others can be used to monitor the size and spread of the tumor, as well as to detect possible metastases.

In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to verify the tumor's response to treatment at a molecular or cellular level.

The frequency of examinations depends on the type of chemotherapy, the stage and type of cancer and the general health of the patient. Blood tests may be required before each cycle of chemotherapy, while imaging tests may be scheduled at specific intervals during and after treatment.

The results of the tests are constantly evaluated by the medical team, which adapts the treatment plan based on them. This may include adjusting doses, changing chemotherapy drugs, or adding targeted therapy or immunotherapy. The goal is to maximize the effectiveness of treatment while minimizing side effects.

Thorough monitoring of side effects is critical because it allows for immediate interventions to mitigate them and improve the patient's quality of life.

Proper nutrition during chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can cause side effects that affect a patient's ability to take in and use food, including nausea, vomiting, changes in taste, and inflammation or ulcers in the mouth. These factors can lead to insufficient intake of nutrients, which can cause weight loss, weakness and deterioration in overall health. Therefore, it is important that patients receive adequate nutritional support to help them maintain strength, promote healing and improve treatment tolerance.

If you are facing nutritional problems during chemotherapy treatment, do not hesitate to contact us. We are ready to give you individual advice and design a diet tailored to your individual needs to help you maintain your strength and manage the side effects of chemotherapy. Together we will find the best solutions for your nutritional support and ensure that your diet is not only balanced, but also tasty.

Emotional and psychological support

Emotional and psychological support is an integral part of the treatment process for patients undergoing chemotherapy. A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment can be very stressful for patients and their families, often causing feelings of anxiety, depression, fear or loneliness. At this difficult stage in life, it is important that patients have access to psychological counseling and support groups that give them a space to express their feelings, concerns and challenges they are facing.

Professional psychological support can help patients better manage the emotionally demanding period of treatment, teach them effective strategies and strengthen their mental resilience. Support groups offer a unique opportunity to share experiences with others who are going through a similar process and thus find a sense of understanding, belonging and common strength.

Undesirable effects of chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, although a key method in the fight against cancer, can bring a wide range of side effects that affect patients. One of the most common side effects is intense fatigue, which can persist even after treatment ends, along with nausea and vomiting, which are often treated with medication.

Changes in the blood count, such as a decrease in the number of white blood cells, lead to a higher risk of infections, while a decrease in red blood cells causes anemia and contributes to feeling tired; a decrease in platelets, in turn, can lead to blood clotting problems.

Hair loss is another known effect that many patients find emotionally demanding, and mouth ulcers can make eating and speaking difficult.

Changes in taste and digestive problems such as diarrhea and constipation can make it difficult for patients to maintain adequate nutrition.

Skin and nails also often suffer, with skin becoming more sensitive to irritation and rashes and nails becoming more brittle and discolored.

Electrolyte imbalances can lead to muscle weakness or cramps, symptoms that can further complicate patients' daily lives.

Emotional and cognitive changes, including depression and a condition known as "chemo brain," which is characterized by reduced cognitive function, are additional challenges which patients can meet.

This wide range of side effects requires comprehensive support and care from a healthcare team that can provide advice, treatment and support to mitigate them, with the aim of improving the patient's quality of life during chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer that can save lives and improve the prognosis of patients. Although the treatment can have various side effects, modern medicine and available support for patients make it easier to manage this difficult journey.

It is important to work closely with a doctor who will help you understand the course of treatment, manage its pitfalls and monitor your overall condition. With optimism, determination and available support, you can successfully overcome chemotherapy and focus on building a fulfilling life.

Remember that every patient is unique and their experience with chemotherapy may vary.

In our center, we offer you comprehensive care based on the latest scientific knowledge and expertise in the field of oncology. Using state-of-the-art equipment and an individualized approach, we are ready to provide you with the most effective treatment strategies. Contact us so that together we can find the optimal path for your treatment.