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When chemotherapy is used

The decision to use chemotherapy depends on the type and extent (stage) of the cancer. It can be used in the following ways:

On its own as the main treatment for cancers, such as lymphomas and leukaemias.
Before surgery or radiotherapy to shrink a cancer that is large or attached to surrounding healthy tissue. This is called neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.
After surgery or radiotherapy when there are no signs of cancer, but there is a risk that some cancer cells may remain. The aim is to destroy the cancer cells and reduce the risk of cancer coming back. This is called adjuvant chemotherapy.
At the same time as radiotherapy to enhance its effectiveness. This is known as chemoradiation or chemoradiotherapy.
To treat cancer that has spread into surrounding tissue or other parts of the body (advanced cancer). This may cure some types of cancer. More commonly the aim is to shrink and control it, to try to extend life and control symptoms. Chemotherapy given to relieve symptoms is called palliative chemotherapy.

Content last reviewed: 1 June 2010

Next planned review: 2012

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Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7UQ.