Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment over the past decade. Unlike chemotherapy, which directly attacks cancer cells, immunotherapy works by empowering your own immune system to recognize and destroy them.
How Does It Work?
Cancer cells are clever. They develop ways to "hide" from the immune system or to "turn off" immune attacks. Immunotherapy drugs remove these disguises, allowing your T-cells and other immune warriors to do their job.
Types of Immunotherapy
Checkpoint Inhibitors Drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab block proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer. These have been game-changers for melanoma, lung cancer, and many other types.
CAR-T Cell Therapy Your own immune cells are collected, genetically engineered to better fight cancer, and infused back into your body. Remarkable results in certain blood cancers.
Monoclonal Antibodies Lab-made proteins that can mark cancer cells for destruction by the immune system.
Who Can Benefit?
Not all cancers respond to immunotherapy. We use biomarker testing — especially PD-L1 expression and microsatellite instability (MSI) status — to predict who is most likely to benefit.
The Future
Research is rapidly expanding. Combination strategies, new targets, and personalised approaches are making immunotherapy relevant to an ever-growing number of cancer types.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified oncologist for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalised medical guidance.