Cochise Oncology

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What is Immunotherapy?

Cancerous cells emerge in the body all the time. They aren’t usually harmful because the body’s immune system clears them away before they have an opportunity to cause disease. However, this cancer-clearing system can sometimes malfunction, and tumors grow unchecked.

Immunotherapy is a set of treatments that attempt to cajole the immune system into fighting cancer cells more effectively. Since scientists first developed it, it has become a popular treatment choice, due to its non-invasiveness compared to standard therapies.

About Cancer Immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy is a type of treatment that boosts the immune system and equips it to fight tumors at all stages of its lifecycle. It works by tapping into protective factors already present in the body and gets them to work harder. It also adds to the body’s defenses, bolstering numbers, making it easier to seek out and eliminate cancerous cells.

At root, immunotherapy seeks to enhance the body’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. For this reason, there are many potential elements a course of treatment could include.

For instance, immunotherapy could change cytokine (chemical messenger) response to tumors, helping the immune system tag them for destruction. It could also increase the production of T-cells, or provide monoclonal antibodies that make it easier for your body to see cancer cells.

What Can Immunotherapy Treat?

Cancer immunotherapy can treat a wide range of cancers. It works against:

Neck and head cancers
Kidney (renal) cancers
Liver (hepatic) cancers
Lymphoma (cancer of the body’s lymphatic system)
Prostate cancer
Stomach cancer
Throat cancer
Melanoma (skin cancer)
Ovarian cancer
Breast cancer
Cervical cancer
Colorectal cancer
Bladder cancer
Brain cancer

Additionally, immunotherapy enhances the body’s ability to fight off other threats, including bacterial infections.

Cochise Oncology remains at the forefront of the latest immunotherapy technologies, implementing new treatments once they become available.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

Immunotherapy Side Effects

Immunotherapy, like other cancer treatments, comes with side effects. However, these tend to be relatively mild and short-lived.

Typically, side effects occur as a result of the immune system becoming more active, similar to having a fever when fighting the flu.

Patients can sometimes feel physically weak, have shortness of breath, or confusion. Other common side effects include headaches, diarrhea, chest pains, muscle spasms, loss of appetite, and skin rashes. Whether you experience these side effects depends on your biochemistry, immune response, and genetics.

Should You Consider Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is one of the most exciting new developments in oncology. It offers a suite of tools that get the body to fight cancer itself, potentially eliminating the need for other forms of treatment, such as radiation and chemotherapy.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you might want to consider exploring your immunotherapy options with Cochise Oncology. We show you which treatments are available and how they could benefit you, if successful.

Whether immunotherapy is suitable for you will depend on the type of cancer you have and your treatment preferences.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about immunotherapy? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!