Biological Therapy
Biological therapy (also called
immunotherapy) is a form of treatment that uses the body’s immune system,
either directly or indirectly, to fight cancer or to reduce side effects caused
by some cancer treatments. Biological
therapy for melanoma uses substances called cytokines. The body normally produces cytokines in
small amounts in response to infections and other diseases. Using modern laboratory techniques,
scientists can produce cytokines in large amounts. In some cases, biological therapy given after surgery can help
prevent melanoma from recurring. For
patients with metastatic melanoma or a high risk of recurrence, interferon
alpha and interleukin-2 (also called IL-2 or aldesleukin) may be recommended
after surgery.
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