Immunotherapy is a type of medical treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight disease. The goal of immunotherapy is to boost the body’s natural defenses and help the immune system fight off infections, cancers, and other health conditions. Immunotherapy can be used to treat a range of diseases, from allergies and autoimmune diseases to cancer.
One of the most common types of immunotherapy is allergy immunotherapy. Allergy immunotherapy involves exposing a person to small amounts of allergen, such as pollen or dust, to help the body become accustomed to it. This helps the body become less sensitive to allergens and reduces the effects of the allergy.
Cancer immunotherapy is another form of immunotherapy. This involves using substances or treatments to boost the body’s immune system so that it can attack cancer cells. Cancer immunotherapy can be used in combination with traditional cancer treatments, such as radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. It can also be used as a stand-alone treatment.
Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, can also be treated with immunotherapy. This type of therapy works by suppressing the body’s immune system, which can reduce disease activity. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as steroids, can also be used to reduce inflammation and thus, reduce the activity of autoimmune diseases.
Immunotherapy is becoming increasingly common in the treatment of many diseases. It is generally safe and well-tolerated, although side effects can occur and typically include fatigue, injection site reactions, skin rashes, and nausea.
Immunotherapy is one of the newest and most exciting advances in medicine. It is an important treatment option for many diseases, and it can be used in combination with traditional treatments for a more complete approach to managing diseases. Immunotherapy can be used to reduce inflammation, boost the body’s natural defenses, and fight off diseases.