In Immunotherapy, the body’s natural defense mechanism is used to protect one from cancer and killing the cancerous cells if present.

In many cases, the growth and the size of the tumor can be reduced with the help of Immunotherapy.

In this type of treatment, several cytokines and anti-bodies are used to destroy cancerous cells and reduce the size of the tumor. Dr. William Coley, at the Sloan-Kettering Institute, found this therapy about hundred years ago when he was able to control and cure some cancers by injecting cytokines and anti-bodies.

Bladder cancer can now be treated with the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), developed in 1922. White blood cells produce Interferons, which is an example of cytokines, if there is any infection or inflammation. Some viral disease, including hepatitis B, can be treated with the help of Interferons.

Growth of the tumor can be reduced by Interferon-alpha. Immune system can also be activated with its help. Various types of leukemia can be treated by Interferon-alpha. Kidney cancer and melanoma can treat Interleukins, another type of Interferon. Tumor necrosis factor is also an interferon which helps control growth of cancer.

Anti-bodies can also be used as part of Immunotherapy to destroy cancerous cells and strengthen the body’s natural immune system. These anti-bodies are injected into the affected organs of the body.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) can be treated by injecting rituximab into the affected organ while breast cancer can be cured with the help of another anti-body called trastuzumab.

Immunotherapy.
In Immunotherapy, the body’s natural defense mechanism is used to protect one from cancer and killing the cancerous cells if present.