Chimiothérapie

Chimiothérapie is a medical treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs, called chemotherapeutic agents or cytotoxic drugs, work by interfering with the rapid growth and division of cancer cells. While effective against many types of cancer, chemotherapy can also affect healthy, rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the hair follicles, bone marrow, and digestive tract, leading to side effects. The specific drugs, dosages, and treatment schedules depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously, orally, or by injection. It is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatments like surgery and radiation therapy. The goal of chemotherapy is to cure cancer, control its growth, or relieve symptoms. The development of chemotherapy has significantly improved outcomes for many cancer patients. Ongoing research focuses on developing more targeted therapies with fewer side effects and on understanding resistance mechanisms.