Description: Chemotherapy, commonly abbreviated as ‘chemo’, is a medical treatment that uses drugs to eliminate cancer cells. This therapeutic approach is based on the ability of drugs to interfere with the growth and reproduction of malignant cells, which tend to multiply uncontrollably. Chemotherapy can be administered in various forms, including intravenous, oral, or intramuscular, and its choice depends on the type of cancer, its location, and the overall health of the patient. Although its primary goal is to eradicate cancer cells, chemotherapy can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and fatigue. Despite these adverse effects, chemotherapy remains a fundamental tool in cancer treatment, often used in combination with other modalities such as surgery and radiation therapy. Its relevance in oncology lies in its ability to treat different types of cancer, from the most common to the rarest, and in its role in improving the quality of life and survival of patients.
History: Chemotherapy has its roots in the 1940s when it was discovered that certain chemical agents could be used to treat cancer. One of the most significant milestones was the use of mustard gas, a chemical agent used in World War I, which showed anticancer properties. In 1942, nitrogen mustard was first used in patients with lymphoma. Since then, chemotherapy has evolved considerably, with the development of multiple drugs and combinations that have improved treatment efficacy and reduced side effects.
Uses: Chemotherapy is primarily used to treat various types of cancer, including leukemias, lymphomas, breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer, among others. In addition to its use as a primary treatment, it is also applied as adjuvant therapy to eliminate remaining cancer cells after surgery or as neoadjuvant treatment to reduce tumor size before surgical intervention. It is also used in cases of metastatic cancer to control disease progression.
Examples: An example of chemotherapy is the use of a combination of drugs such as cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin in the treatment of breast cancer. Another case is the use of chemotherapy in patients with leukemia, where regimens like the 7+3 treatment protocol, which combines cytarabine and daunorubicin, can be employed. These treatments have proven effective in reducing tumors and improving patient survival.
