Q. How does immunotherapy work to treat cancer?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Immunotherapy works to treat cancer by harnessing and enhancing the body's own immune system to recognize, target, and destroy cancer cells. The immune system is equipped with various mechanisms to detect and eliminate abnormal cells, including cancer cells. However, cancer cells can often evade detection or suppress the immune response. Immunotherapy interventions are designed to overcome these evasion strategies and bolster the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Here's how immunotherapy works in cancer treatment:
1. Enhancing Immune Recognition: Cancer cells can sometimes avoid detection by the immune system because they may not appear significantly different from normal cells. Immunotherapy, such as checkpoint inhibitors, can block the proteins that inhibit immune responses, allowing the immune system to recognize cancer cells more effectively.
2. Activating T Cells: T cells are a type of immune cell that plays a central role in the immune response. Some immunotherapies, like CAR-T cell therapy, genetically engineer a patient's own T cells to express receptors (CARs) that target specific proteins on cancer cells. These modified T cells can then recognize and destroy cancer cells.
3. Monoclonal Antibodies: Monoclonal antibodies are engineered proteins that can be designed to target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. When these antibodies bind to cancer cells, they can mark them for destruction by the immune system or directly interfere with their growth and division.
4. Cancer Vaccines: Cancer vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize specific proteins or antigens found on cancer cells. These vaccines can help the immune system identify cancer cells more effectively, much like traditional vaccines prepare the immune system to fight infectious diseases.
5. Immune Checkpoint Inhibition: Immune checkpoint inhibitors are drugs that block proteins like PD-1 or CTLA-4, which cancer cells use to dampen the immune response. By blocking these checkpoints, the immune system's activity is restored, allowing it to attack cancer cells.
6. Enhancing Immune Memory: Some immunotherapies aim to create long-lasting immune memory against cancer. This means that even after the initial treatment, the immune system continues to recognize and fight cancer cells if they reappear.
It's important to note that not all cancers respond equally to immunotherapy, and individual responses can vary. Additionally, immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the specific cancer type and stage. Healthcare providers carefully evaluate each patient's condition to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include immunotherapy as part of a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment.
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Answered by Secondmedic ExpertDealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:
1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.
2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.
3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.
4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.
5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.
7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.
Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.
Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.
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