UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital
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Immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy medicines help the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Known as an immune checkpoint inhibitor, these medicines work to activate the immune system. They are part of new, emerging therapies that researchers are actively exploring. Oncologists (cancer doctors) at UT Health San Antonio offer the latest options in immunotherapy for many types of cancer.

Leading-edge immunotherapy for cancer

UT Health San Antonio’s cancer specialists use immunotherapy drugs to treat both early-stage and advanced forms of certain cancers, such as bladder cancer. We offer specialized immunological treatments such as: 

You’ll find a full spectrum of immunotherapy and other treatment services right here in San Antonio. Our Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, is the only NCI-designated cancer center in Central and South Texas and part of an elite network of programs that deliver trusted care. This designation illustrates our commitment to providing the very best cancer care to each patient. 

Understanding immunotherapy

Immunotherapy drugs help boost how your body’s immune system works. They give your body’s natural defense system more energy to fight cancer cells. Other immune checkpoint drugs help your immune system identify cancer cells so your body knows to get rid of them.

Immunotherapy is just one type of medicine that your doctor may use to treat cancer. You have an entire team of experts, across an array of specialties, meeting regularly about your care. Depending on your needs, your team may combine immune checkpoint drugs with chemotherapy, radiation therapy or other targeted therapies.

Candidates for immunotherapy

Our experienced, collaborative team of specialists cares for people affected by all types and stages of cancer, including the most complex cases. Multiple providers from different specialties work together and with you to determine which treatments are best for you

What to expect during immunotherapy treatment

Immunotherapy is a systemic cancer treatment. This means that the medicine travels through your bloodstream to treat cancer all throughout your body. 

You can receive immunotherapy drugs in multiple ways. While some come in pill form that you swallow, our team delivers most immunotherapies via:

  • Central line: A surgeon places a long, thin tube (catheter) under the skin and delivers the immunotherapy medication through this tube.
  • Infusion:  A nurse places an intravenous (IV) line into a vein in your hand or arm. The nurse injects the immunotherapy medication through the IV line and it travels through your bloodstream. 
  • Port: A surgeon inserts a port (small device connected to a flexible tube) under the skin in your upper chest or just below your collarbone. The port is a semi-permanent IV your care team uses to deliver medication. 

Get details to plan your care with us.

Access to clinical trials

Our extensive clinical research gives those living in San Antonio and surrounding communities access to cancer advancements that aren’t typically available in South Texas.

Our team includes world-class cancer researchers who offer immunotherapy treatment and trials that are not widely available at other centers in our part of the country. We actively participate in national and local clinical trials. This expands your treatment options, and allows us to offer you emerging treatments sooner. Ask your doctor how clinical trials could enhance your treatment. Learn about cancer clinical trials and research.