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Hormonal therapy for cancer refers to treatments that manipulate the body's hormone levels to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Hormonal therapy is often used in combination with other cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the specific type and stage of cancer. It is typically a long-term treatment aimed at controlling the cancer's growth and preventing its recurrence.
Here are some common types as below:
- Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
- Aromatase Inhibitors
- Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists
- Anti-Androgens
- Progestins
- Estrogen Receptor Downregulators
Following are the procedure steps:
Diagnosis and Hormone Receptor Testing: Before starting hormonal therapy, a patient typically undergoes diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of hormone-sensitive cancer and determine the status of hormone receptors on cancer cells. This may involve biopsy samples being tested for estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), or androgen receptors (AR), depending on the type of cancer.
Consultation with a Oncologist or Endocrinologist: Patients will meet with a medical oncologist or an endocrinologist specializing in cancer care to discuss treatment options, including hormonal therapy. During this consultation, the doctor will review the patient's medical history, diagnostic test results, and any previous cancer treatments.
Treatment Plan: Based on the diagnosis and hormone receptor status, the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include hormonal therapy alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The choice of hormonal therapy drugs and duration of treatment will depend on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and any previous cancer treatments.
Administration of Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy drugs are typically administered orally in the form of pills or tablets.
Some drugs may also be given as injections or implants. The frequency and duration of treatment will vary depending on the specific drug and the treatment plan prescribed by the doctor.
Monitoring and Follow-up: Throughout the course of hormonal therapy, patients will undergo regular monitoring to assess the response to treatment and monitor for any side effects. This may involve periodic imaging tests, blood tests, and clinical examinations. The doctor may adjust the treatment plan as needed based on the patient's response and any adverse reactions.
Management of Side Effects: Hormonal therapy can cause side effects such as hot flashes, fatigue, bone thinning (osteoporosis), mood changes, and sexual dysfunction. Patients are encouraged to communicate with their healthcare team about any side effects they experience so that appropriate supportive care measures can be provided.
Long-term Follow-up: After completing hormonal therapy, patients will continue to undergo regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence and manage any long-term side effects of treatment.