Immunotherapy for cancer treatment: Side effects and how it differs from chemo

Over the past few decades, there have been major advancements in cancer treatment, with more focused and less harmful choices becoming accessible where chemotherapy and immunotherapy are two of the most popular treatments. Although they are both used to treat cancer, there are differences in their modes of action and adverse effects.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Raman Narang, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncologist at Andromeda Cancer Hospital in Sonipat, simplified that one kind of cancer treatment – called immunotherapy – works by strengthening the body’s defenses against cancerous cells. Numerous forms of immunotherapy exist, such as:
According to Dr Raman Narang, the way that immunotherapy and chemotherapy target cancer is where they diverge most –

Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Pooja Babbar, Consultant – Medical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, revealed that patients may encounter varying side effects as a result of the variations in these therapies’ mechanisms of action. She elaborated –
– Exhaustion or fatigue
– Hair loss
– Vomiting and nausea.
– Sores on the mouth – Infections
– Anemia
Chemotherapy side effects can be intense but often subside after treatment ends, as healthy cells recover.
– Exhaustion Immunotherapy can make you fatigued, just like chemotherapy does, although it usually doesn’t last as long.
– Skin reactions: Many patients have rashes, itching, or other skin concerns, which are linked to the immune system’s activation.
– Inflammation: As the immune system ramps up, it may attack normal tissues, resulting to inflammation in organs such as the liver (hepatitis), lungs (pneumonitis), intestines (colitis), and endocrine glands (thyroiditis).
– Fever and chills: When the immune system becomes active, people may have symptoms similar to the flu, such as body aches
– Autoimmune reactions: In rare cases, the immune system may overreact, attacking healthy organs and tissues, leading to autoimmune diseases.
Immunotherapy side effects might happen weeks or months after the start of treatment and are typically more delayed. Usually treatable with corticosteroids or other immune-suppressive drugs, they can occasionally develop chronic.

1. Goal: Both seek to increase patient survival while eradicating cancer cells.
2. Combination: Frequently used in conjunction with radiation or surgery, among other therapies.
3. Monitoring: Both treatments require routine monitoring and follow-ups.
Dr Pooja Babbar highlighted that choosing between immunotherapy and chemotherapy requires careful consideration in consultation with the physician. Considerable elements include –
Dr Pooja Babbar concluded, “There are advantages and disadvantages to both immunotherapy and chemotherapy. A customised approach to therapy should be taken, considering the unique features of the malignancy as well as the patient’s preferences and general health. Patients now have more options than ever before to effectively combat cancer because of continual breakthroughs in the field.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.