Treatment
Immunotherapy
Also known as: Biological therapy, Biotherapy, Immune-oncology
Definition
A type of cancer treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer by using substances made by the body or in a laboratory to boost or restore immune system function.
Detailed Explanation
Unlike traditional chemotherapy that directly attacks cancer cells, immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's natural defenses. It can include checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, cancer vaccines, and cytokines. Immunotherapy has revolutionized treatment for many cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, and kidney cancer.