Therapy Related Neoplasms, also known as treatment-related neoplasms or second primary cancers, refer to the development of new malignant tumors in individuals as a direct result of previous therapeutic interventions. These interventions can include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or other forms of cancer treatment.
The occurrence of therapy-related neoplasms is a significant concern as it poses an additional health risk to patients already dealing with cancer or other medical conditions. The development of these neoplasms is often associated with the cytotoxic effects of treatment modalities, which can damage healthy cells and DNA, potentially leading to the development of new neoplastic growth.
Therapy-related neoplasms may manifest in various regions of the body, depending on the type and site of the initial cancer and the specific treatments received. Common examples include secondary leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome following exposure to certain chemotherapeutic drugs such as alkylating agents or topoisomerase inhibitors, or radiation-induced sarcomas in tissues previously exposed to radiation therapy.
Given the potential risks, medical professionals closely monitor patients' long-term health following cancer treatments to detect and manage any potential therapy-related neoplasms. Early detection through regular screenings and appropriate interventions can significantly impact patient outcomes. The management of therapy-related neoplasms often involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating various treatment modalities such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplantation.