Chemotherapy

Definition

Chemotherapy uses certain drugs to stop the uncontrolled division of cancer cells.

Oncologists apply chemotherapy in specific intervals, also called chemotherapy cycles. They tailor these cycles according to different cancer types and each patient’s unique situation. The number of cycles can vary depending on the cancer type.

There are over 100 different chemotherapy drugs currently in use. Oncologists use these drugs in various combinations to achieve the desired effect. In short, chemotherapy is not a single drug that is used to treat every cancer, but an umbrella term defining a drug treatment process for cancer.

Chemotherapy Regimens

A medical oncologist explains the process in detail before starting the treatment. He provides the patient with the chemotherapy regimen, defining the drugs to be used and timing of each chemotherapy session.

Success rates of the treatment regimens, common side effects and alternatives are also discussed. The doctors do not plan the regimens with a one-size-fits-all approach but carefully design a unique treatment according to each patient’s needs.

Preparations before starting chemotherapy

Doctors routinely order blood tests, chest X-rays, electrocardiograms, and other studies, depending on the patient’s situation. If the patient has additional health problems, oncologists consult other doctors before starting the treatment. These preparations ensure a safe treatment process.

What to expect during a chemotherapy session

An oncology nurse introduces the treatment inside special chemotherapy units. The sessions usually last a couple of hours. A doctor supervises the entire process and observes for any signs of side effects.

One of our chemotherapy units.

Oncology nurses accompany the patients through the process and intervene if there are any side effects or the patient feels any type of discomfort.

Common side effects of chemotherapy treatments

Nausea and tiredness are the most common side effects of most chemotherapy regimens. Toxicities related to chemotherapy are mostly caused by the drugs damaging healthy dividing cells of the body. Cells that cause hair to grow are example of such rapidly dividing cells. Damage to these cells causes hair loss typically seen in patients undergoing cancer treatment.

There are some serious side effects that are much less common. Damage to bone marrow cells can impair body’s production of immune cells, making the patient vulnerable to opportunist infections. Seize of production of red blood cells may cause anemia.

Luckily, most of the time, these adverse events are reversible. Most patients regrow their hair soon after the treatment regimen is over. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, even the most complicated side effects can be managed without permanent damage.

Cost of Chemotherapy treatment

Because each patient’s situation is unique and requires individualized treatment, it is difficult to calculate a cost without first examining the patient’s documents.

Chemotherapy treatments usually cost around $400 per cycle. For example, if the patient requires 5 cycles of chemotherapy, the costs are expected to be around $2000. Tests conducted before the treatment and price of the drugs are included in these costs.