Biological and Immunotherapy

Biological therapy and immunotherapy are advanced treatments that use the body’s natural defenses to fight disease, including cancer. With many types of therapies available, our doctors can recommend the best option for your type of cancer.

These treatments offer targeted, less invasive options that can improve outcomes and reduce side effects compared to traditional cancer therapies.

Biological therapy

Works by altering biological processes to slow cancer growth, repair damaged cells, or make the body more responsive to treatment.

Immunotherapy

A type of biological therapy that strengthens the body’s immune system, helping it recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

There are different types of biological therapies used in cancer treatment, including:

Biological Response Modifiers (BRMs)

These lab-made substances help the body fight cancer by boosting the immune system, targeting cancer cells, and strengthening a weakened immune system.

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T)

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) is a type of biological treatment that uses modified immune cells to find and destroy cancer cells, most often used for certain blood cancers.

Colony-Stimulating Factors (CSFs)

CSFs help the body produce more white blood cells, strengthening the immune system to fight infections and recover from cancer treatments.

Nonspecific immunomodulating agents

These are general immune boosters that enhance the overall activity of the immune system, aiding in the fight against cancer.

Immunotherapy specifically strengthens the immune system, helping it recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. Therapy types include:

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T)

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) uses genetically modified T cells to help the immune system better recognize and attack cancer, making it stronger and more targeted.

Cytokine therapy

Uses natural proteins to boost the immune system, helping it recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Interferons (IFN)

Naturally occurring proteins that can slow the growth of cancer cells and enhance the immune system's ability to attack them.

Interleukins (IL)

Encourage immune cells to grow and work harder, strengthening the body’s natural defense against cancer.

Monoclonal antibodies

Specially designed proteins that attach to cancer cells, helping the immune system find and destroy them.

Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapy

TIL therapy is a personalized, one-time cancer treatment that uses the body's immune cells to target solid tumors. It is approved for adults with metastatic melanoma with limited treatment options.

Vaccine therapy

Introduces antigens into the body to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack specific types of cancer cells.

Treatment cycles

Treatments vary by therapy, but are typically given through IV infusion, injection, or pills over weeks or months. Our team will monitor you through regular check-ups to determine progress and adjust your treatment if needed.

Potential side effects

Side effects vary by treatment but often resemble flu-like symptoms.

Side effects may include:

• Chills
• Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach

Some therapies, like cytokine therapy, may also cause bone pain, rash, or swelling at the injection site.

Talk to your care team about potential side effects before starting treatment.