Q. How does adjuvant chemotherapy work, and what are its potential side effects?

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Adjuvant chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that is administered after the primary treatment, often surgery, to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence by targeting any remaining cancer cells in the body. Here's how adjuvant chemotherapy works and some of its potential side effects:

How Adjuvant Chemotherapy Works:

1. Killing Cancer Cells: Chemotherapy drugs work by targeting and destroying rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Cancer cells divide and grow more quickly than normal cells, making them vulnerable to the effects of chemotherapy.

2. Systemic Treatment: Adjuvant chemotherapy is systemic, meaning it circulates throughout the entire body via the bloodstream. This allows it to reach cancer cells that may have spread (micrometastases) but are too small to be detected by imaging.

3. Preventing Recurrence: Adjuvant chemotherapy is used to eradicate any residual cancer cells that may remain after primary treatment, such as surgery. By eliminating these cells, it reduces the risk of cancer recurrence.

Potential Side Effects of Adjuvant Chemotherapy:

Adjuvant chemotherapy can have side effects, which vary from person to person and depend on the specific drugs used. Common potential side effects include:

1. Nausea and Vomiting: Many chemotherapy drugs can cause nausea and vomiting, but anti-nausea medications are often prescribed to help manage these symptoms.

2. Fatigue: Chemotherapy can lead to significant fatigue, making it important for patients to get enough rest and conserve their energy.

3. Hair Loss: Some chemotherapy drugs may cause hair loss. Hair often grows back after treatment, but the extent and timing can vary.

4. Low Blood Counts: Chemotherapy can lower the levels of red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (increasing infection risk), and platelets (increasing bleeding risk). Blood tests are performed regularly to monitor these counts.

5. Increased Infection Risk: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Patients are advised to take precautions and may be given medications to boost their immunity.

6. Mouth Sores: Some chemotherapy drugs can cause mouth sores, which can be painful. Good oral hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of mouth problems.

7. Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, constipation, and changes in appetite are common digestive side effects. A registered dietitian can help manage nutritional concerns.

8. Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy): Some chemotherapy drugs can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet.

9. Cognitive Changes: Sometimes referred to as "chemo brain," some patients experience cognitive changes, such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating, during chemotherapy.

10. Fertility Issues: Chemotherapy can affect fertility in both men and women. Patients may consider fertility preservation options before starting treatment.

It's important to note that while adjuvant chemotherapy can have side effects, not all patients experience them, and the severity can vary widely. The choice of chemotherapy drugs and the management of side effects are tailored to each patient's individual circumstances. Healthcare providers closely monitor patients throughout treatment to address any issues and provide supportive care to manage side effects effectively.