Immunotherapy
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.
TIL therapy - a promising new cancer treatment explained
By Professor Hendrik Tobias Arkenau
2022-07-02
TIL therapy is an exciting new experimental cancer treatment that could help extend the lives of many cancer patients who fail to respond to standard treatments. But what is TIL therapy, how does it work and which cancers can it treat? Professor Hendrik-Tobias Arkenau, a top medical oncologist and drug developer in London explains. See more
Immunotherapy treatment for cancer: How does it work?
By Dr Omar Khan
2022-07-02
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 in this illuminating article, as well as specialist insight on how immunotherapy treatment works to fight cancer. See more
Psoriasis: how can it be treated with biologic therapy?
By Dr Ariel Haus
2022-07-02
Psoriasis causes the skin cells to multiply almost 10 times faster than normal, resulting in itchy, red and flaky patches on various parts of the body. Treatment focuses on managing inflammation, but even then, for some people it doesn't always work. Now, however, an innovative treatment known as biologic therapy is beginning to show some life-changing results for patients with severe psoriasis. Dr Ariel Haus, one of our top dermatologists, explains more. See more
CAR T-cell therapy: a promising new cancer treatment
By Dr Michael Potter
2022-07-01
CAR-T cell therapy is a recent and highly effective new treatment for cancer. Learn about this promising new therapy from Dr Michael Potter. See more
-
Dr Mark Tuthill
Medical oncologyExpert in:
- Immunotherapy
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Metastasis
-
Dr Saifee Abbas Mullamitha
Medical oncologyExpert in:
- Colorectal cancer
- Bowel cancer
- Liver cancer
- Immunotherapy
- Clinical trials
- Personalised medicine
-
Dr Omar Khan
Medical oncologyExpert in:
- Lung cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Immunotherapy
- Mesothelioma
-
Professor Hendrik Tobias Arkenau
Medical oncologyExpert in:
- Stomach cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Bowel cancer
- Immunotherapy
- Clinical trials
-
Dr Sarah Partridge
Clinical oncologyExpert in:
- Head and neck cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Cancer
- See all