Immunotherapy vs Chemotherapy

When considering cancer treatment options, immunotherapy and chemotherapy differ in their approach, effectiveness, side effects, and long-term outcomes.

Mechanism of Action

• Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to target cancer cells, potentially offering lasting protection against recurrence.
• Chemotherapy directly kills rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, but also affects healthy cells.

Effectiveness

• Immunotherapy shows promise in cancers like melanoma and lung cancer, especially when combined with other treatments. It may provide long-term benefits and lasting immunity.
• Chemotherapy is well-established for shrinking tumors and treating various cancers, often used with surgery or radiation.

Side Effects

• Immunotherapy: Fatigue, skin reactions, and, in rare cases, autoimmune responses. Side effects may be unpredictable and persist after treatment.
• Chemotherapy: Nausea, hair loss, and reduced blood cell counts, with side effects typically occurring during treatment and often temporary.

Long-Term Outcomes

• Immunotherapy can offer durable responses and is increasingly integrated into treatment plans, particularly for patients with specific biomarkers.
• Chemotherapy improves survival rates but may not offer the long-term immunity that immunotherapy can potentially provide.

Choosing between the two depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual health. Discussing these options with a healthcare provider is key to determining the best approach.