Immunotherapy

Professor Hendrik Tobias Arkenau - Medical oncology

Created on: 01-16-2013

Updated on: 12-22-2024

Edited by: Conor Dunworth

What is immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy, also called biological therapy, biotherapy or biological response modifying therapy (BRM therapy), is a set of treatment techniques that boost the body’s natural defences-the immune system to fight cancer and certain infections. Some immunotherapy treatments boost the immune system overall, while others try to teach it to attack specific types of cells found in tumours. Treatments include the administration of vaccines, creams, tablets and the use of monoclonal antibodies (these are a type of protein that can attach to cancer cells in the body).

What is immunotherapy used for?

Immunotherapy is used to strengthen the immune system to help it fight cancer and side effects of cancer treatments. It can also be used to combat allergies. Allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy can alter the immune system and prevent the development of new allergies.

What does immunotherapy involve?

Treatment uses substances produced by living organisms or substances made in a laboratory. It can be administered in several ways:

Intravenous (IV): An injection is administered directly into a vein.
Oral: in capsule or tablet form to ingest.
Topical: Application of a cream on the skin to fight cancer in its initial stages.
Intravesical: This is an injection administered directly into the bladder to help tackle bladder cancer.

How long does treatment last?

This can depend on a number of factors, including:

The type of cancer and how advanced it is.
The type of immunotherapy taken.
How the patient reacts to the treatment.

Articles related to Immunotherapy

Two people holding hands, supporting each other.

Immunotherapy treatment for cancer: How does it work?

By Dr Omar Khan
2024-12-26

Immunotherapy treatment may be offered in many cases where patients receive a cancer diagnosis. In some cases, patients may also be able to participate in clinical trials should they wish to do so. Renowned consultant medical oncologist, Dr Omar Khan, gives expert advice for those considering taking part in a clinical trial, as well as specialist insight on how immunotherapy treatment works to fight cancer. See more

lung cancer, pulmonology, oncology, small cell lung cancer, chemotherapy, immunotherapy

Ask an expert: How are different types of lung cancer treated?

By Dr Jay Naik
2024-12-26

We invited highly respected consultant medical oncologist Dr Jay Naik to share his expertise on the different types of lung cancer and the various approaches to treatment that may be employed in this informative article. See more

Systemic anti-cancer therapy: An expert guide

By Professor Andrew Wardley
2024-12-26

Leading consultant medical oncologist Professor Andrew Wardley explains what systemic anti-cancer therapy entails and how it can be used in the treatment of breast cancer in this informative article. See more

An expert guide to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

By Dr David Wrench
2024-12-25

Learning more about lymphomas, especially the different types and how they affect you, in order to gain an understanding of the condition can provide a sense of control and positivity after a diagnosis. Here to highlight the difference between non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma is leading consultant haematologist Dr David Wrench. See more