• Published on: Nov 05, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Remission Of Cancer!

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

Remission of cancer!

Cancers under remission can return at any time. This does not mean that any more treatment is needed, simply that the patient needs to continue with normal cancer prevention measures such as check-ups and screenings. Cancer cells almost always linger on by replicating just a little more than healthy cells and they do so without causing symptoms for some time usually causing no harm and occasionally doing good by consuming some other kind of damaged cell. The problem is when they suddenly multiply into a big enough population to really cause trouble which happens largely because something changed in their environment--the toxins didn't change but the tissue became less able to handle them or somehow the cancer cell got its growth signals restored or something like that.

Remission of cancer (or more accurately, the term 'complete remission') is typically interpreted as the situation where there are no detectable traces of cancer left in the patient's body through means such as X-Rays or CT Scans. Other medical definitions of remission include keeping levels of tumor markers down enough to draw a conclusion.

Whether or not remission is attributable to treatment can be disputed but what happens after it takes place does not seem like a coincidence - post-remitters experience less cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's than those who never experienced remission.

This usually happens if the cancer is in remission. The word "remission" means to stop talking, so it's a way of saying that cancer has stopped progressing and not spread to other parts of the body. This is often temporary and doesn't mean that the patient has been cured or will never get sick again. If anything, else happens, such as a recurrence of their cancer, they'll probably need treatment again to cure it for good.

The condition of being cancer-free is called remission. To say someone has been cured of cancer, a doctor wants to see a period of five years with no signs or symptoms, so they’ve done some follow-up testing and the signs are negative. Their body just isn’t producing any cells that have those abnormal changes characteristic of cancer, which is what it means for someone to be cured of cancer. This can occur because of conventional or alternative therapies as well as natural treatments such as diet and lifestyle changes.

Remission is after an interval (parents), during which there were detectable but not distressing symptoms (or no symptoms) attributable to the disease; the near-complete disappearance (paling).

It might take years but you can repair your intestinal tract and get it working normally again. One of the main systemic effects of intestinal healing is improved immunity, so consider that when choosing foods.

A remission is a temporary stopping of the growth or spreading of cancer. The term "remission" only applies to certain cancers and may not apply depending on what type of cancer it is, especially since there are multiple types and classification systems for different types and stages of cancers. For instance, lymphoma can be in remission because it has stopped growing or spreading but if it starts back up again it would not be considered to have been in remission. It's possible for someone with metastatic prostate cancer to experience a remission from their disease, which does not mean that they are cured since they will probably need additional treatments. In other words, there is still no cure-all treatment available that works on all cancers.

There are three possible outcomes of any cancer diagnosis. The first is a cure, which would be that the cancer is cleared completely, meaning it can't be detected at all. Secondly, there is remission (promotion), which means that cancer shrinks down but isn't gone yet; this may last weeks or months. Lastly, there's extension-the cancer continues to grow and spread without slowing down; this one does not have a good prognosis for survival rates.

For most cancers, a remission is an option if it's caught early enough before too many cells have divided and started to cause trouble somewhere else in the body.

At this time, there is no cure for cancer. Some doctors advocate that "remission" of cancer lasts until the disease recurs, after which point it becomes metastatic (meaning that it has spread to other parts of the body). What this means in practical terms is that metastatic cancers are unlikely to be cured by any treatment. There are some exceptions including events where the patient's immune system has eradicated all traces of their tumor -- called spontaneous remission. It is difficult to tell if a tumor will relapse once it has gone into remission since much can change in one's life or health between diagnosis and relapse.

In 2013, studies have shown that removal of 85% or more of stomach cancer cells led to a 10% reduction in the risk of relapse. In other words, as long as ample amounts of stomach cancer cells are removed at surgery, there is a statistically significant chance that remission will be achieved.

Read Blog
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes illness in people of all ages, particularly young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus can lead to conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and upper respiratory infections. With rising cases globally and in India, awareness about HMPV, its symptoms, and available treatment options is essential.

In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms in easy-to-understand language.

 

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

HMPV is a virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family—the same group of viruses responsible for illnesses like RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and mumps. It was first discovered in 2001 but is now known to have been circulating for decades.

The virus mainly affects the respiratory tract and can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe lower respiratory infections. It spreads most commonly in late winter and spring, similar to flu season.

 

HMPV in India: Current Overview

In 2025, several hospitals in India have seen a rise in cases of HMPV among children and elderly patients. Though not as widely known as COVID-19 or flu, Human Metapneumovirus is a common cause of pediatric hospital admissions during respiratory infection surges.

Doctors advise taking it seriously because it can mimic flu or pneumonia, making early diagnosis crucial.

 

Common Symptoms of HMPV

The symptoms of HMPV are similar to other respiratory viruses. They can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe breathing difficulties, especially in vulnerable groups.

Main Symptoms Include:

  • Fever

  • Cough

  • Runny nose

  • Nasal congestion

  • Sore throat

  • Wheezing

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fatigue

  • Loss of appetite (especially in children)
     

In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.

 

How is HMPV Transmitted?

Human Metapneumovirus spreads from person to person through:

  • Coughing and sneezing

  • Close personal contact

  • Touching contaminated surfaces or hands
     

The virus can survive on surfaces like toys, doorknobs, and tables for several hours. That’s why regular handwashing and hygiene are essential.

 

How is HMPV Diagnosed?

Since HMPV symptoms resemble other viral infections, a lab test is the only way to confirm the virus.

Tests may include:

  • RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) for detecting viral RNA

  • Nasopharyngeal swabs

  • Rapid antigen tests (less common)
     

In India, you can book respiratory virus panels or flu-like illness tests from diagnostic labs like Thyrocare through SecondMedic to check for multiple viruses including HMPV.

 

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment

There is no specific antiviral drug for HMPV. Treatment is mainly supportive, aimed at relieving symptoms.

Supportive Treatments:

  • Fever reducers like paracetamol

  • Cough suppressants

  • Steam inhalation

  • Hydration (drinking fluids)

  • Rest
     

Hospitalization is required if:

  • Breathing becomes difficult

  • Oxygen levels drop

  • Patient is elderly, a young child, or has chronic illnesses (like asthma or heart disease)
     

Doctors may provide oxygen therapy or nebulizers to ease breathing in severe cases.

 

How to Prevent HMPV

As with many respiratory infections, prevention is the best protection.

Tips to Avoid Infection:

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when outside.

  • Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

  • Avoid touching your face, especially eyes and nose.

  • Disinfect commonly used surfaces at home and work.

  • Avoid close contact with sick individuals.

  • Wear a mask in crowded places during flu season.
     

There is no vaccine for HMPV yet, but researchers are working on developing one.

 

Who is Most at Risk?

  • Infants and toddlers (under 5 years)

  • Adults over 65

  • People with weakened immune systems

  • Individuals with chronic respiratory or heart diseases
     

These groups may experience more severe symptoms and need urgent care if infected.

 

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if:

  • Symptoms last more than 5–7 days

  • Breathing becomes difficult

  • Fever is very high or persistent

  • There's chest pain or confusion

  • A child has a bluish face or lips
     

Early intervention can prevent complications.

 

Recommended Tests on SecondMedic (Powered by Thyrocare)

While there is no HMPV-specific test for home collection, you can book tests like:

  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  2. CRP (C-Reactive Protein)

  3. Respiratory Pathogen Panel

  4. Influenza A & B Detection

  5. RT-PCR Viral Panels (on request)
     

Visit SecondMedic’s Lab Test Section to explore packages and book your test online.

 

Conclusion

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a growing cause of respiratory illness in India, especially in children and the elderly. Though there is no specific cure, early diagnosis and symptom-based treatment can help patients recover fully. Practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people are the best ways to prevent infection.

Stay informed and protect your loved ones. For detailed insights and medical advice, bookmark this guide on "Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms."

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic