Therapy related neoplasm refers to the development of a new tumor or cancer as a result of medical treatments received for a different condition. It is a term used in the field of oncology or cancer treatment to describe cancers that occur due to the side effects of therapeutic interventions, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
Therapy related neoplasms typically arise as a consequence of the DNA damage caused by the prescribed treatment, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of abnormal tissue masses. This can occur months or even years after the initial therapy, and the risk is influenced by various factors, including the type and duration of treatment, dose intensity, genetic predisposition, and individual patient characteristics.
Common examples of therapy related neoplasms include secondary malignancies like acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) following radiation or chemotherapy for a primary cancer. Other therapy related neoplasms can involve solid tumors, such as sarcomas, lung cancers, or breast cancers, which may arise as a direct result of radiation exposure.
Diagnosis and treatment of therapy related neoplasms typically involve a combination of medical imaging, biopsies, and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Treatment options can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation, depending on the specific type and stage of the neoplasm.
Overall, therapy related neoplasms highlight an important consideration in cancer treatment, as healthcare providers must weigh the potential benefits of therapy against the risk of developing a secondary cancer.