What is chemotherapy: principles, methods and applications

Unlike surgery, which physically removes the tumor, chemotherapy works systemically. It destroys cancer cells throughout the body, including those that may have spread far beyond the original tumor site (metastases). Because of this systemic effect, chemotherapy often becomes an indispensable part of cancer treatment.

One of the leading medical centers utilizing advanced treatment methods is the Ichilov Oncology Hospital in Tel Aviv, Israel. The hospital employs the latest chemotherapy protocols based on international standards.

Chemotherapy can be administered for different purposes:

• Neoadjuvant therapy – given before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor.
• Adjuvant therapy – prescribed after the primary treatment to destroy any remaining cancer cells that could not be removed.
• Palliative therapy – used when a full cure is not possible, but it can prolong life and improve quality of life by slowing disease progression.

In addition, chemotherapy can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as hormone therapy or immunotherapy. At the Ichilov Oncology Clinic, treatment protocols are tailored individually based on the specific characteristics of the disease and the patient’s condition.

Before starting treatment, specialists conduct a thorough assessment of several factors:

• the type and stage of the tumor,
• its location,
• the patient’s age,
• the presence of comorbidities,
• any previous treatments (if applicable).

This information allows the oncology team at Ichilov to develop a personalized treatment plan, specifying the medications, dosages, and course duration. Chemotherapy is administered in cycles, with breaks in between to allow the body to recover.

Patients undergo regular checkups, including blood tests, physical examinations, and diagnostic imaging (CT, MRI, scintigraphy), which help adjust treatment as needed.

Chemotherapy drugs can be delivered in various ways:

• Intravenously – the most common method,
• Orally – in the form of tablets or capsules,
• Locally – through injections into specific areas, such as the abdominal cavity or cerebrospinal fluid.

At Ichilov’s oncology department, the administration method is carefully selected based on treatment effectiveness and patient comfort.

Because chemotherapy drugs affect not only cancer cells but also healthy cells that divide rapidly, side effects may occur.

The most common include:

• fatigue and weakness,
• anemia (low red blood cell count),
• reduced platelet count,
• nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues,
• hair loss,
• weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to infections.

Ichilov utilizes advanced approaches to minimize side effects, including effective medications to prevent nausea and support the immune system. It’s important to remember that many side effects subside once treatment ends and the body begins to recover.

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The Oncology Department at Ichilov is proud of its multidisciplinary approach. Patients are treated by a team of experienced oncologists, hematologists, and palliative care specialists. Collaborative decision-making and high levels of expertise ensure the most effective treatment possible.

Choosing treatment in Israel gives patients access to cutting-edge medical technology, the latest medications, and individualized care. You can be confident that chemotherapy at Ichilov is carried out according to the most up-to-date international standards.