A variety of methods are used to destroy tumors, depending on the type of tumor, its location, and the overall health of the patient. Here are some common approaches:
Surgery:
- Surgical removal: This is the most common method for treating solid tumors. Surgeons carefully remove the tumor and surrounding tissue to ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated.
Radiation Therapy:
- External beam radiation therapy: High-energy rays, like X-rays, are directed at the tumor from outside the body.
- Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy): Radioactive material is placed directly into or near the tumor.
Chemotherapy:
- Chemotherapy drugs: Powerful medications are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Targeted therapy: Drugs specifically designed to target certain proteins or pathways involved in tumor growth are used.
Immunotherapy:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors: These drugs help the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
- CAR T-cell therapy: This advanced treatment uses a patient's own immune cells, genetically modified to target and destroy cancer cells.
Other Treatments:
- Hormone therapy: This treatment blocks hormones that fuel tumor growth.
- Stem cell transplantation: This treatment replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
- Cryosurgery: This technique uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy tumor cells.
The choice of treatment depends on the specific type of tumor, its stage, and the patient's overall health. A multidisciplinary team of doctors will work together to develop the most effective treatment plan.
