How is immunotherapy defined in cancer treatment?

Immunotherapy in cancer treatment is defined as a method that utilizes the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. This approach harnesses the natural defense mechanisms of the body, enabling the immune system to identify cancerous cells more effectively and mount an attack against them. Unlike traditional treatments, which may directly kill cancer cells or remove them physically, immunotherapy often involves the use of biological agents like monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, or vaccines to stimulate or enhance the immune response.

This definition accurately captures the essence of immunotherapy's role in oncology, distinguishing it from other treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. In contrast, options that refer to radiation, chemotherapy targeting fast-growing cells, or surgical interventions describe entirely different approaches to cancer treatment that do not engage the immune system in the way immunotherapy does.