ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF INDUCTION CHEMOTHERAPY

Advantages

• Drug delivery to cancer cells is unimpaired.
• Macroscopic response may predict for response of microscopic disease. Prompt elimination of micrometastases may aid in cure.
• Tumor may be downsized, allowing for more successful surgery or radiation therapy with less radical treatment.
• Patient performance status at surgery may be improved.

Disadvantages

• Original extent of tumor may be obscured.
• Performance status may decline.
• Tumor may increase during chemotherapy.
• Duration, toxicity, and cost of treatment are increased.

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