Best Doctor List Near You for Neoadjuvant Therapy in Walnut creek

Neoadjuvant therapy is a treatment approach administered before the primary or main treatment, such as surgery, to reduce the size or extent of a tumor, making it easier to remove or treat. This strategy is commonly used in the management of cancers, including breast, rectal, and lung cancers. Neoadjuvant therapy can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer. The primary goal of neoadjuvant therapy is to shrink the tumor or decrease its spread, which can enhance the effectiveness of subsequent surgery or other primary treatments. It also helps in assessing the tumor's response to the treatment, which can provide valuable information about how the cancer is behaving and guide further treatment decisions. The primary cause for utilizing neoadjuvant therapy is to improve surgical outcomes, potentially allow for less invasive surgery, and reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence. By shrinking the tumor before surgery, neoadjuvant therapy can help ensure that more of the cancer is removed and potentially increase the chances of a complete resection. However, neoadjuvant therapy is associated with potential complications. Common side effects vary depending on the type of therapy used but may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and increased risk of infections. There is also a risk of adverse effects specific to the type of therapy, such as radiation-induced skin changes or chemotherapy-induced organ damage. Additionally, some patients may experience psychological or emotional challenges due to the extended treatment period before the primary surgery. Despite these risks, neoadjuvant therapy can be a critical component of cancer treatment, offering significant benefits in optimizing surgical outcomes and overall disease management.