What distinguishes immunotherapy from traditional chemotherapy?

Immunotherapy is distinguished from traditional chemotherapy primarily due to its highly specific targeting of cancer cells. This specificity arises because immunotherapy leverages the body’s immune system to identify and attack cancer cells more selectively, as opposed to chemotherapy, which often indiscriminately targets rapidly dividing cells, including both cancerous and healthy cells.

This targeted approach allows immunotherapy to reduce damage to normal tissues, leading to potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Additionally, the mechanism of action for immunotherapy can lead to lasting immune memory, imparting more durable responses against the cancer. In contrast, chemotherapy is generally broader and can affect a wide array of cells, contributing to the common adverse effects associated with its use.

The specificity of immunotherapy is crucial in developing personalized treatment plans, often leading to more effective outcomes for selected patient populations. This is a significant advancement in cancer treatment as it opens avenues for therapies that are less toxic and more tailored to individual tumor characteristics.