What is Immunotherapy? (Simple Explanation)

Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that trains your immune system to fight cancer more effectively. Think of it as boosting your body’s internal army, helping it recognise and attack cancer cells that usually hide or block immune responses.

Why is Immunotherapy Important?

• Targets cancer cells with high precision

• Offers treatment for cancers resistant to chemotherapy

• Fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments

• Can improve long-term survival rates

• Works on advanced, metastatic, or recurrent cancers

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals for Immunotherapy Cancer Treatment?

• Decades of experience in advanced oncology

• NABH-accredited, globally trusted hospitals

• Full range of types of immunotherapy

• Dedicated tumour boards for personalised treatment plans

• Advanced diagnostics for accurate immune profiling

• Affordable care for international patients

• Dedicated patient navigators for end-to-end support

Types of Immunotherapy We Offer

• Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Release immune “brakes” so cancer cells can be attacked.

• CAR-T Cell Therapy: Genetically engineered immune cells to target cancer precisely.

• Monoclonal Antibodies: Lab-made proteins that flag cancer cells for destruction.

• Cancer Vaccines: Boost immunity to prevent or slow cancer growth.

• Cytokine Therapy: Strengthens the immune response through signalling proteins.

Immunotherapy Procedure & Process

The Immunotherapy Procedure

• Usually given through IV infusions

• Session duration varies from 30 minutes to several hours

• Performed in a specialised day-care oncology unit

• Close monitoring for reactions after each dose

The Immunotherapy Process

1. Diagnosis & Testing: Immune markers, biopsy, PET/CT scans.

2. Treatment Planning: Tumour board selects suitable immunotherapy type.

3. Administration: Regular cycles based on cancer stage & response.

4. Monitoring: Blood tests, imaging, and symptom evaluation.

5. Follow-Up: Long-term tracking to ensure stable, safe recovery.

Who is Eligible for Immunotherapy?

• Patients with confirmed cancer diagnosis

• Individuals with metastatic, recurrent, or chemotherapy-resistant cancers

• Those with specific immune markers like PD-L1

• Patients medically fit for immune-based therapies

• Those seeking advanced treatment options after other therapies

Who Should Avoid Certain Immunotherapy Types?

• Patients with severe autoimmune diseases

• Individuals with uncontrolled infections

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women for specific immunotherapy drugs

• Patients with severe heart, liver, or lung dysfunction

• Those with previous severe reactions to immune-modulating drugs

Preparing for Immunotherapy

Checklist

• Recent biopsy and imaging reports

• Blood tests and immune profiling

• List of current medications and allergies

• Travel and medical visa documents

• Insurance/TPA verification

• Pre-treatment counselling

• Availability of caregiver support

What to Expect During Treatment

Timeline

• Evaluation and diagnostic tests

• Personalised immunotherapy plan

• Treatment sessions over several weeks or months

• Regular monitoring for side effects

• Periodic scans to assess response

Team Involved

Medical oncologists, immunologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, and patient navigators.

Recovery & Aftercare

• Side-effect management using supportive medication

• Guidance on fatigue, fever, skin reactions, or digestive issues

• Nutrition and hydration plans

• Psychological and emotional support

• Long-term monitoring every 3–6 months

Risks & Complications

• Immune-related inflammation (lungs, liver, colon, thyroid)

• Fatigue, fever, or skin rash

• Infusion-related reactions

• Hormone imbalance from immune activity

• Rare risk of severe autoimmune responses

Benefits of Immunotherapy at Manipal Hospitals 

• Potential long-term remission

• Precise targeting of cancer cells

• Fewer side effects than chemotherapy

• Suitable for advanced and resistant cancers

• Access to modern biologics and CAR-T therapy

• Culturally sensitive care for global patients