Immune System Side Effects

21.03.2024

IMMUNE SYSTEM SIDE EFFECTS OF CANCER TREATMENTS

Cancer treatments; especially chemotherapy, radiotherapy and some targeted cancer drugs can weaken the immune system. This occurs because cancer treatments target fast-growing normal cells as well as cancer cells. The immune system protects the body against microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Cancer treatments can weaken this protective mechanism and increase the risk of infection.

While chemotherapy kills cancer cells, it can also affect white blood cells. White blood cells play an important role in helping the body fight infections. The decrease in white blood cells caused by chemotherapy (known as neutropenia) can cause the patient to become more vulnerable to infections.

Radiotherapy can also affect the immune system. While this treatment kills cancer cells, it can also damage healthy cells and reduce the body's resistance to infections.

Understanding how cancer treatments affect the immune system and the precautions to be taken are important for safe management of the treatment process. To reduce the risk of infection during and after cancer treatment, patients are advised to maintain close communication with their doctors and healthcare teams and seek immediate medical attention with any health problems or concerns.

Medicines that can weaken the immune system in cancer treatment include:

Chemotherapy Drugs: Especially drugs such as cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and methotrexate.

Corticosteroids: It can suppress the immune system, especially when used in high doses for a long time.

Immunotherapy Drugs: In some cases, immunotherapy drugs such as PD-1 or CTLA-4 inhibitors can have suppressive effects on the immune system.

While these drugs target cancer cells, they can also affect immune system cells, which can increase the risk of infection. During the treatment process, the patient should be closely monitored and supportive treatments should be applied if necessary.

Image 1: Due to the weakening of the immune system during the cancer treatment process, hygiene rules should be followed to protect against infections. If necessary, immune-boosting injections may be administered during the treatment process.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

If we list the side effects that occur on the immune system in cancer treatment:

Neutropenia: Chemotherapy and some immunotherapies can reduce the number of white blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infection.

Infection Risk: Decrease in white blood cells increases the risk of bacterial, viral and fungal infections.

Weakening of the Immune Response: Some cancer treatments can weaken the body's immune response to cancer cells and other pathogens.

Skin Reactions: Immunotherapy may cause allergic reactions on the skin, for example itchy rashes, blisters or more serious skin problems.

Liver and Gastrointestinal System Effects: Immunotherapy can increase liver enzyme levels and lead to serious gastrointestinal problems (e.g., colitis).

Lung and Respiratory System Problems:Rarely, immunotherapy can cause inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis).

Thyroid and Endocrine System Problems: Immunotherapy can cause problems with the glands that produce hormones, especially the thyroid gland.

Brain and Nervous System Effects: Immunotherapy can rarely affect the brain and nervous system, most commonly involving conditions such as encephalitis and neuropathy.

Heart and Cardiovascular System Effects: Immunotherapy can have effects on the heart and cardiovascular system, for example causing irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and inflammation.

Joint Inflammation: Immunotherapy can cause inflammation in the joints (arthritis).

Each of these side effects can pose significant challenges for patients during the cancer treatment process. Therefore, it is important to stay in constant communication with doctors during and after treatment and to seek medical help immediately if any signs of side effects are noticed.

Image 2: Hand washing is extremely important to protect against infections during the cancer treatment process, and wearing a mask may be necessary in crowded environments.

WHAT ARE THE POINTS TO BE CONSIDERED?

Some precautions that can be taken to protect the immune system and minimize possible side effects during cancer treatment are:

Regular Medical Follow-Up and Monitoring: Regular blood tests and other medical checkups during and after cancer treatment are important to monitor effects on the immune system. In this way, possible problems are detected early.

Paying Attention to Hygiene Rules: You can reduce the risk of infection by washing your hands frequently and keeping them clean. It is important to keep open wounds clean and dry and watch for signs of infection.

Healthy eating: A healthy diet with balance and variety helps support your immune system.

Adequate Sleep and Rest: Adequate sleep is very important for the body to repair itself and strengthen the immune system.

Physical Activity: Regular light exercise strengthens the immune system and improves overall health.

Stress Management: Stress management methods such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing techniques can have positive effects on the immune system.

Avoiding Infections:Staying away from crowded places and sick people helps reduce the risk of infection.

Vaccinations:Make sure your current vaccinations are up to date and get any additional vaccinations recommended by your doctor.

Health Supplements and Herbal Products:Be sure to consult your doctor before using any supplements or herbal products, as some may interact with cancer treatments.

Following Doctor's Recommendations:Depending on the type and severity of cancer treatment, your doctor may recommend immune-supporting medications or measures.

These precautions may vary depending on your general health and the type of cancer treatment you are receiving. It is important to always follow your doctor's advice and seek immediate medical attention with any health problems or concerns.