Immunotherapy and chemotherapy are two very different ways of treating cancer.
How does chemotherapy work?
It uses drugs that kill fast-dividing cells, including cancer cells, acting throughout the body.
How does immunotherapy work?
It helps the patient's own immune system find and attack cancer — including checkpoint inhibitors and cellular therapies like CAR-T.
Which is better?
Neither is universally better — it depends on cancer type, stage, biomarkers and health. They are sometimes combined.
Are side effects different?
Yes. Chemotherapy often affects blood counts, hair and digestion; immunotherapy can cause immune-related inflammation. Both are managed by the team.
Who can advise me?
Dr. Varun Rajan, Medical Oncologist at Medical Trust Hospital, Kochi.