Immunotherapy
Oncolytic Virus Therapy
Also known as: Oncolytic virotherapy, Viral immunotherapy
Definition
A treatment using viruses that selectively infect and kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
Detailed Explanation
Oncolytic viruses like T-VEC (talimogene laherparepvec) for melanoma directly lyse tumor cells and trigger immune responses. The virus replicates in cancer cells, causing them to burst and release tumor antigens that activate the immune system. This dual mechanism can lead to systemic anti-tumor immunity.