When the finding is better or stable (e.g., according to criteria), there are no new lesions, and side effects are mild/moderate.
Symptoms, scans (usually a ), and the trend of are compared. means improvement, means the condition is not changing, and means worsening. How you feel and function in everyday life also matters.
If you have more pronounced , the doctor may reduce the dose or extend the interval between – so that the treatment remains tolerable and effective.
Treatment that helps you get through cancer therapy with as few side effects as possible, and thus maintain your quality of life.
Short breaks are sometimes possible (e.g., between or due to a procedure), but only in agreement with the medical team.
If more severe occur (high fever, difficulty breathing, severe pain), the treatment may be temporarily paused, adjusted or even stopped if the symptoms are severe. That is why it is important to report any new symptom during treatment early, while it is still mild.
If scans show disease progression or side effects are too severe despite adjustments – the next is started.
Not necessarily. Trends over time are observed and compared with scans and symptoms. One measurement rarely changes the plan by itself.
Yes. If interfere with your daily life, tell the doctor – it is possible to reduce the dose or adjust the schedule without losing effectiveness.
How long the same cancer treatment is given depends on the type of treatment – in general, it continues as long as it keeps the disease under control and is tolerable. Some drugs have a maximum cumulative dose that must not be exceeded (e.g., doxorubicin).
In advanced disease, the goal is long-term control with a good quality of life. That is why the doctor takes into account scans, laboratory tests and your everyday functioning – all of this together guides the ‘continue / adjust / change’ decision.
