If a tumor has spread, the nearby tissues and lymph glands are removed along with the malignant growth in an operation called radical surgery . Radiation works by destroying cancer cells. In external beam radiation , a machine sends x-rays or gamma rays into the tumor. In internal radiation , a radioactive substance, like radium, is put into the body by means of a pill, injection or insertion in a sealed container. Radiation is often used alone in cases where a tumor is unsuitable for surgery or particularly receptive to destruction through radiation.
Chemotherapy kills cancer cells through the use of drugs or hormones.
Taken either orally or through injection, chemotherapeutic agents are used to treat a wide variety of cancers. They may be given alone or in combination with surgery or radiation or both. Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to destroy cancer cells. Immunological agents work in different ways and can be used independently or in combination with other forms of treatment. Some people hesitate to take advantage of the best type of treatment for their cancer because they fear the possible side effects.