Immunotherapy in Delhi, India

Immunotherapy is an advanced cancer treatment that helps the body fight cancer by improving or restoring the immune system’s ability to detect and destroy abnormal cells. It is used to treat several types of cancers and may be recommended alone or alongside treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy. Over the years, immunotherapy has become an important part of modern cancer care, particularly for certain advanced or difficult-to-treat cancers. Depending on the type of immunotherapy used, treatment may help slow cancer growth, shrink tumours, reduce the risk of recurrence, or improve long-term disease control.

Benefits of Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy offers several potential advantages over conventional cancer treatments, though outcomes vary depending on the cancer type, stage, and individual patient factors.

• Targets Cancer More Precisely : Immunotherapy is designed to help the immune system identify and attack cancer cells more specifically, which may help reduce damage to healthy tissues compared to some conventional treatments.
• May Provide Long-Term Disease Control : In some patients, the immune system continues to recognise and respond to cancer cells even after treatment ends, contributing to longer-lasting disease control. This is one of the most significant differences from chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Effective When Other Treatments Have Not Worked : Immunotherapy may offer a meaningful alternative for patients whose cancer has not responded adequately to chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy.
• Can Be Combined with Other Treatments : Immunotherapy is often used alongside chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or surgery to improve overall treatment effectiveness and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Better Tolerability in Some Patients : While immunotherapy has its own side effects, some patients experience fewer or less severe symptoms compared to traditional cancer treatments, allowing them to maintain daily activities during treatment.

How Immunotherapy Works

The immune system naturally helps protect the body by identifying and destroying harmful or abnormal cells. However, some cancer cells develop the ability to avoid immune detection or suppress the body’s immune response, allowing the disease to grow and spread. Immunotherapy helps overcome this by strengthening the immune system’s ability to recognise and attack cancer cells. Different forms of immunotherapy work in different ways. Some treatments activate immune cells directly, while others block signals that prevent the immune system from attacking tumours effectively. Certain immunotherapies may also help the immune system develop a longer-lasting response against cancer cells, which can contribute to improved disease control in some patients.

Immunotherapy includes several different treatment approaches, each designed to help the immune system recognise and fight cancer more effectively. The type recommended depends on the cancer type, stage, biomarkers, previous treatments, and the patient's overall health.

• Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors : Some cancer cells exploit the immune system's natural checkpoints to avoid detection. Checkpoint inhibitors block these signals, allowing the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells more effectively. They are commonly used in melanoma, lung cancer,kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and certain head and neck cancers.
• CAR T-Cell Therapy : In this approach, a patient's own T-cells are collected, genetically modified in a laboratory to better recognise cancer cells, and then infused back into the body. It is primarily used for certain blood cancers, including specific types of leukaemia and lymphoma, particularly when other treatments have not been effective.
• Monoclonal Antibodies : These are laboratory-made proteins designed to identify and attach to specific targets on cancer cells. Once attached, they may help the immune system destroy cancer cells or block signals that support tumour growth. They are used in several cancers including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lymphoma, and lung cancer.
• Cancer Vaccines : These are designed to help the immune system recognise and respond to cancer cells. Some target cancers linked to viral infections, while therapeutic vaccines stimulate the immune system against existing cancer.
• Cytokine Therapy : This approach uses synthetic versions of naturally occurring proteins to stimulate immune cells and improve the body's ability to fight cancer. While newer approaches are now more commonly used, cytokine therapy may still play a role in certain cancers such as melanoma and kidney cancer.
• Adoptive Cell Therapy : This treatment involves collecting immune cells from a patient, modifying or expanding them in a laboratory, and returning them to the body to help fight cancer more effectively.

At Max Hospitals, oncology specialists use a personalised and multidisciplinary approach to determine the most appropriate immunotherapy strategy for each patient.

Immunotherapy is used in the treatment of several types of cancers, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy. Its role in cancer care continues to expand as ongoing research improves the understanding of how different cancers respond to immune-based treatments.

Below are some of the cancers where immunotherapy is commonly used:

• Lung Cancer - Immunotherapy is widely used in certain types of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), either alone or alongside chemotherapy depending on the stage and tumour markers.
• Melanoma - Melanoma has shown significant response to immunotherapy. Checkpoint inhibitors and other immune-based treatments are commonly used in advanced or high-risk cases.
• Breast Cancer - Immunotherapy may be used in selected cases, particularly triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and is often combined with chemotherapy to improve treatment response.
• Kidney Cancer - Certain types of kidney cancer, especially advanced renal cell carcinoma, may respond well to immunotherapy, sometimes in combination with targeted therapies.
• Bladder Cancer - Immunotherapy plays an important role in advanced or recurrent bladder cancer, particularly when chemotherapy is not suitable or has not been effective.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma - Checkpoint inhibitors have shown encouraging results in patients with recurrent or treatment-resistant Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) – Immunotherapy is an important treatment option for certain types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Depending on the subtype, treatments such as monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, or CAR T-cell therapy may be used, particularly in relapsed or treatment-resistant disease.
• Multiple Myeloma – Immunotherapy plays an expanding role in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Monoclonal antibodies, CAR T-cell therapy, and other immune-based treatments may be recommended for selected patients, especially those with relapsed or refractory disease, helping improve disease control and treatment outcomes.
• Head and Neck Cancers - Immunotherapy may be used in advanced cases where cancer has spread, recurred, or cannot be managed effectively with surgery or radiation therapy alone.
• Liver Cancer - Immunotherapy is increasingly used in advanced liver cancer, either alone or alongside targeted therapies, and may help slow disease progression in selected patients.

Immunotherapy is not suitable for every patient or cancer type, which is why a thorough evaluation is carried out before treatment begins.

Patients who may be considered include those who:

• Have advanced or metastatic cancer
• Have not responded adequately to chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy
• Have a tumour profile that suggests a likely response to immune-based treatment

Before treatment starts, specialists assess the cancer type and stage, previous treatments, overall health, and immune function through a physical examination, blood tests, imaging scans, and organ function assessments. Biomarker and genetic testing also plays a central role, including PD-L1 expression, microsatellite instability (MSI), mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR), and tumour mutation burden (TMB).

Where immunotherapy is appropriate, treatment planning is led by a multidisciplinary team spanning medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and radiology. Patients and their families receive counselling on what to expect, how to recognise early side effects, and when to seek medical attention.

Immunotherapy can be administered in different ways depending on the type of cancer, the specific immunotherapy being used, the treatment goals, and the patient’s overall condition. Some forms of immunotherapy are delivered directly into the bloodstream, while others may be taken orally or administered into a specific part of the body.

• Intravenous (IV) Infusion: Intravenous infusion is one of the most common methods of administering immunotherapy. In this approach, the medication is delivered directly into a vein through an IV line, allowing it to circulate throughout the body. Most checkpoint inhibitors and several other immunotherapy drugs are given through IV infusions in a hospital or daycare setting under the supervision of oncology specialists. Depending on the medication and treatment schedule, sessions may last from a few minutes to several hours and are usually repeated over regular intervals.
• Oral Immunotherapy Medications: Some immunotherapy treatments are available in the form of oral medications that can be taken at home as prescribed by the doctor. These medications help regulate or stimulate the immune system to fight cancer more effectively. Patients receiving oral immunotherapy still require regular follow-ups, blood tests, and monitoring to assess treatment response and manage any side effects or complications.
• Intravesical Immunotherapy: Intravesical immunotherapy involves delivering the medication directly into the bladder through a catheter. This approach is commonly used for certain types of early-stage bladder cancer, allowing the treatment to target cancer cells within the bladder lining while limiting effects on other parts of the body. The medication is usually retained in the bladder for a specific period before being removed naturally.
• Injection-Based Immunotherapy: Certain immunotherapy treatments may be administered through injections, either under the skin, into a muscle, or directly into the tumour in selected cases. This approach may be used for specific cancer vaccines, cytokine therapies, or other specialised immunotherapy treatments. The frequency and duration of injections depend on the type of cancer, treatment response, and the patient’s overall treatment plan.

At Max Hospitals, the method of administration is carefully selected based on the patient’s treatment plan, with close monitoring throughout therapy to ensure safety, effectiveness, and timely management of side effects.

The immunotherapy experience varies depending on the cancer type, medication, and treatment plan. While every patient's journey is different, understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and make it easier to feel prepared.

• Duration and Frequency of Sessions : Sessions may be scheduled weekly or every few weeks depending on the treatment. Intravenous infusions are given in a hospital or daycare setting and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Oral immunotherapy is taken at home with regular hospital follow-ups. Treatment is typically given in cycles to allow the body time to recover, and the overall duration can range from a few months to several years depending on the cancer type, treatment response, and tolerance.
• Monitoring During Treatment : Immunotherapy requires close monitoring throughout, as it can sometimes trigger immune-related side effects in different organs. At Max Hospitals, this includes routine blood tests, imaging scans, physical examinations, and assessment of organ function. Treatment schedules may be adjusted or temporarily paused if side effects occur.
• Follow-Up and Response Assessment : Immunotherapy can sometimes take longer to show visible results than conventional treatments, as the immune system needs time to build an effective response. Regular follow-up appointments using imaging and laboratory assessments help evaluate treatment response and detect any complications early. Monitoring continues even after treatment ends in many cases.

Like all cancer treatments, immunotherapy can cause side effects. Because these treatments work by stimulating the immune system, side effects may occur when the immune response also affects healthy tissues and organs. The type and severity vary depending on the immunotherapy used, the cancer type, and the patient's overall health.

• Fatigue - Fatigue is one of the most common side effects. Patients may feel unusually tired or low in energy, ranging from mild tiredness to fatigue that affects daily activities. Adequate rest, balanced nutrition, hydration, and light physical activity may help manage symptoms.
• Skin Reactions - Some patients develop rash, itching, redness, dryness, or skin sensitivity. Most reactions are mild and manageable, although severe symptoms may require treatment adjustments.
• Fever and Flu-Like Symptoms - Immunotherapy may cause temporary symptoms including fever, chills, body aches, and general discomfort as the immune system becomes activated. Supportive medications can help manage these effectively.
• Digestive Problems - Some patients experience nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, or reduced appetite. In certain cases, immune-related inflammation can affect the digestive tract, making early reporting of symptoms particularly important.
• Inflammation in Organs - In some cases, immunotherapy may trigger inflammation in healthy organs, known as an immune-related adverse event. Organs that may be affected include the lungs, liver, intestines, kidneys, hormone-producing glands, and heart. While serious immune-related side effects are less common, they require timely medical attention.

At Max Hospitals, patients are closely monitored throughout treatment so that any complications can be identified and managed early. Patients are encouraged to report any new or worsening symptoms promptly, as early intervention can prevent complications and help treatment continue safely.

Immunotherapy requires specialised expertise, accurate diagnostics, and continuous monitoring to ensure safe and effective treatment. At Max Hospitals, patients receive personalised immunotherapy care supported by experienced oncology teams and advanced cancer treatment infrastructure.

• Experienced Oncology Specialists: Our oncology teams have extensive experience in managing a wide range of cancers using advanced immunotherapy approaches and evidence-based treatment protocols.
• Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Technology: Advanced diagnostics, molecular testing, imaging technology, and modern treatment infrastructure at Max Hospitals support precise immunotherapy planning and treatment monitoring.
• Personalised Cancer Care Plans: Immunotherapy plans at Max Hospitals are tailored according to the cancer type, biomarker profile, previous treatments, overall health, and treatment goals of each patient.
• Multidisciplinary Tumour Board Approach: Complex cancer cases are reviewed by multidisciplinary tumour boards involving medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
• International Patient Support Services: Dedicated support services help international and outstation patients with appointment coordination, medical documentation, travel assistance, interpreter services, and accommodation guidance.
• Comprehensive Follow-Up Care: Patients undergoing immunotherapy at Max Hospitals receive continued monitoring, follow-up consultations, and supportive care to assess treatment response and manage side effects effectively.

What cancers respond best to immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy has shown encouraging results in cancers such as melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and certain head and neck cancers. Treatment response, however, varies depending on the cancer type, stage, and tumour biomarkers, which is why each case is evaluated individually at Max Hospitals.

Is immunotherapy painful?

Immunotherapy itself is not painful. Patients receiving intravenous treatment may experience mild discomfort from the IV insertion, but the infusion process is generally well-tolerated.

How quickly does immunotherapy start working?

Response time varies from patient to patient. Some may see improvement within weeks, while others may take several months. In some cases, the immune system continues working even after treatment ends, contributing to longer-term disease control.

Why do some patients respond better to immunotherapy than others?

Response depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, tumour biomarkers, genetic characteristics, immune system activity, and overall health. This is why detailed evaluation and biomarker testing are central to treatment planning at Max Hospitals.

Can immunotherapy stop working over time?

In some cases, cancer cells may develop resistance to immunotherapy. If this happens, specialists at Max Hospitals will review the treatment plan and recommend alternative or combination approaches based on the patient's condition.

Are immunotherapy side effects permanent?

Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with timely medical care. However, some immune-related side effects may lead to longer-term complications if not identified and treated early, which is why regular monitoring throughout treatment is important.

Is immunotherapy safe for elderly patients?

Yes, immunotherapy can be used in elderly patients. Treatment decisions are based on overall health, existing medical conditions, and the patient's ability to tolerate therapy rather than age alone.

Can patients continue daily activities during immunotherapy?

Many patients are able to maintain their routine during treatment. However, some may need to adjust their schedule depending on fatigue levels, side effects, or their overall health at any given point in the treatment cycle.

Can immunotherapy be used after cancer surgery?

Yes. Immunotherapy may be recommended after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence or to improve long-term disease control, depending on the cancer type and overall treatment goals.

Can immunotherapy be used if cancer returns after treatment?

Yes. Immunotherapy may be considered for recurrent cancers depending on the type of cancer, previous treatments received, and the patient's current health and treatment goals.

Is hospital admission required for immunotherapy?

Most immunotherapy is administered in a daycare or outpatient setting, so overnight admission is typically not required. Hospital admission is usually only necessary if complications or severe side effects develop during treatment.

Reviewed by Dr Rayaz Ahmed, Vice Chairman - Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Cancer Care / Oncology, Hematology Oncology, on 9 July 2026.