Chemotherapy - the use of drugs to kill cancer cells

Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to kill cancer cells in the body. In haemato-oncology (the study and treatment of blood cancers and related conditions), chemotherapy is often used as the primary treatment approach. 

Intensive chemotherapy is a type of treatment that involves giving high doses of chemotherapy drugs over a relatively short period of time. It is often used for aggressive blood cancers, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Intensive chemotherapy can be challenging for patients as it can cause more severe side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. However, it may offer a better chance of curing the cancer. 

Non-intensive chemotherapy, on the other hand, involves giving lower doses of chemotherapy drugs over a longer period of time. This approach is often used for less aggressive blood cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and follicular lymphoma. Non-intensive chemotherapy is generally more tolerable for patients, with fewer and less severe side effects. 

The choice between intensive and non-intensive chemotherapy depends on various factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the patient's age and overall health, and the treatment goals. Treatment plans are usually developed by a team of specialists, including hematologists, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals, to determine the best course of action for each individual patient. 

Radiation therapy - the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. 
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is an effective treatment option that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells in the body. This treatment works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which stops them from growing and dividing. 

At Sterling Hospitals Ahmedabad, we offer radiation therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for blood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, radiation therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment. Our team of hematologists/oncologists will carefully evaluate each patient's individual needs and circumstances to determine the best course of treatment. 

Radiation therapy is commonly used for localized lymphomas, including early-stage Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It can also be used to treat bone marrow involvement in leukemia or lymphoma. 

During radiation therapy, high-energy radiation is delivered to the body from a machine outside of the body. Treatment typically takes place over several weeks, with the length and frequency of treatment sessions varying based on the cancer being treated. 

While radiation therapy can cause side effects, such as fatigue, skin changes, and nausea, our team of healthcare professionals is experienced in managing these side effects with medication and other supportive therapies. 

Overall, radiation therapy can be a highly effective treatment option for blood cancers when used appropriately as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Contact us at Sterling Hospitals Ahmedabad to learn more about our radiation therapy services and how we can help you or your loved one in the fight against cancer.