Medical Oncology

Medical oncology is a specialized medical field focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. In this discipline, patients are treated using methods such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. A medical oncologist develops the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to each individual. After determining the stage of cancer, the treatment strategy is refined, and patients are guided on how to manage potential side effects.

What is Medical Oncology?

Medical oncology is the branch responsible for managing the treatment process after the type and stage of cancer have been identified. Following diagnosis, drug-based treatments and patient monitoring are planned by this department. Medical oncology adopts a multidisciplinary approach by working in collaboration with radiation oncology and general surgery. While other oncology branches often focus on tumors based on their location, medical oncology primarily deals with managing metastatic or advanced-stage cancers. The main goal is to extend the patient’s lifespan and improve overall quality of life.

What Does Medical Oncology Cover?

Medical oncology is a field of medicine that aims to stop tumor growth and relieve symptoms through personalized treatment planning. The treatment process is often carried out using a multidisciplinary approach in close collaboration with other medical specialties.
The primary conditions addressed by medical oncology include:

• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Gastric and intestinal (gastrointestinal) cancers
• Gynecological cancers
• Blood and lymphatic cancers
• Liver, kidney, and bladder cancers
• Melanoma and skin cancers

What Are the Diagnostic Methods in Medical Oncology?

In medical oncology units, oncologists work to accurately diagnose cancer and develop effective treatment plans tailored to each patient. Accordingly, the diagnostic methods used include:

• Biopsy procedures
• Blood tests, and imaging techniques such as CT, MRI, PET/CT, and X-rays
• Evaluation of medical history
• Genetic and molecular testing
• Pain management services

Medical Oncology Treatment Methods

In medical oncology, treatment methods such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy are commonly used. These approaches aim to improve the quality of life for individuals, particularly in cases of advanced-stage and metastatic cancers.
The main treatment methods used in medical oncology include:

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells by preventing their growth and division. It is often combined with surgery, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy for increased effectiveness.
Medications can be administered intravenously (IV) or orally. Our treatment centers provide a comfortable and supportive environment, along with nutritional and psychological support services.

Targeted Therapy

This method targets specific genetic features of cancer cells to destroy them while causing minimal damage to healthy cells, resulting in fewer side effects.
Advanced agents such as monoclonal antibodies, kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors are utilized. Cutting-edge genetic screening and imaging technologies help monitor treatment progress closely.

Hormone Therapy

This treatment blocks hormones that support the growth of certain cancers. It is particularly effective in managing breast and prostate cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy aims to activate the immune system to fight cancer cells. It has proven highly effective in treating specific cancers such as melanoma, lung cancer, and kidney cancer.
Immune cells are trained to identify and directly attack cancer cells

Palliative Care

This supportive care approach addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals with serious illnesses such as cancer. Integrated into the overall treatment process, palliative care helps relieve symptoms, enhances quality of life, and facilitates effective communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Oncology

What is the difference between medical oncology and clinical oncology?

Medical oncology and clinical oncology are often used interchangeably in some regions, particularly in non-English-speaking countries. In essence, medical oncology refers to the branch of medicine responsible for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring cancer using systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy. Both terms typically describe the same specialty focused on non-surgical, non-radiologic cancer treatment.

What does medical oncology focus on?

Medical oncology is a specialized field that manages cancer treatment through pharmacological interventions. It aims to stop the progression of cancer cells and relieve symptoms using therapies like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and hormonal treatments.