Have you ever heard stories about patients undergoing immunotherapy for cancer and experiencing no recurrence? Here’s what you need to know about recurrent cancer and what it means in terms of your overall health.
When Cancer Comes Back
Recurrence refers to cancer that returns after treatment has been completed. It originates with cancer cells that remained after the first course of treatment but were too small to show up in post-treatment testing.
Recurrent cancer is the same form as the original tumor, as opposed to a new type of cancer that may develop in patients who have a history of tumors. The latter is known as second primary cancer.
Types of Recurrent Cancer
Cancer recurs in three different ways:
• Local recurrence is in the same general area as the original tumor.
• Regional recurrence describes cancer that has grown into lymph nodes or other tissues near the original cancer.
• Distant recurrence is when cancer has spread to organs or other tissues far from the original site.
Another term that describes distant recurrence is metastatic cancer. Regardless of where the cancer has spread, it’s still the same type as the original tumor.
Testing and Treatment
Your doctor will likely repeat many of the same tests that resulted in the first diagnosis. These tests provide information to help determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Effective Non-Toxic Immunotherapy for Cancer at Issels®
The personally tailored immunotherapy for cancer treatments at Issels® are designed to boost your own immune system’s ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Contact us today to learn how our programs have helped patients achieve long-term remission.