This chemotherapy technique delivers chemotherapy drugs directly into the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord to target cancer cells that have spread there. Intrathecal chemotherapy is delivered through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) or a device placed under the scalp.
Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy: Precision Treatment for Central Nervous System Cancers
Intra-thecal chemotherapy is a specialized cancer treatment method designed to target malignancies in the central nervous system (CNS). Kingsway Hospitals in Nagpur, led by esteemed oncologist Dr. Saurabh Prasad, offers this advanced therapy to ensure precise, effective cancer care for patients with CNS involvement.
What is Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy?
Intra-thecal chemotherapy is the direct delivery of cancer-fighting drugs into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which bathes the brain and spinal cord. This method bypasses the blood-brain barrier—a natural defense mechanism that prevents most drugs from reaching the CNS—allowing targeted treatment of cancers affecting the brain, spinal cord, and meninges.
When is Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy Used?
This treatment is primarily used for:
- Leukemia and Lymphoma: Certain types of leukemia (e.g., acute lymphoblastic leukemia) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with CNS involvement.
- Meningeal Carcinomatosis: Cancer spread to the meninges from solid tumors like breast or lung cancer.
- Primary CNS Tumors: Tumors originating in the brain or spinal cord.
- Prophylactic Treatment: Preventing CNS involvement in high-risk cancers.
How is Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy Administered?
The procedure involves delivering chemotherapy drugs directly into the CSF using two common methods:
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap):
A needle is inserted into the lower back to access the CSF.
The chemotherapy drug is injected directly into the spinal canal.
- Ommaya Reservoir:
A small, dome-shaped device is surgically implanted under the scalp, connected to the CSF.
This allows repeated access for drug administration without multiple lumbar punctures.
Common Drugs Used in Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy
- Methotrexate: A widely used drug for treating CNS cancers.
- Cytarabine: Effective in treating leukemia and lymphoma with CNS involvement.
- Thiotepa: Used for various cancers affecting the brain or meninges.
- Liposomal Cytarabine: A sustained-release formulation for prolonged drug action.
Benefits of Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy
- Targeted Action: Delivers drugs directly to the site of cancer in the CNS, ensuring higher efficacy.
- Bypasses the Blood-Brain Barrier: Overcomes a significant limitation of systemic chemotherapy.
- Minimized Systemic Side Effects: Reduces exposure of healthy tissues to chemotherapy drugs.
- Prophylactic Potential: Prevents CNS recurrence in high-risk cancers.
Potential Side Effects
While intra-thecal chemotherapy is generally well-tolerated, patients may experience side effects such as:
- Headaches or nausea after administration.
- Fatigue and dizziness.
- Risk of infection at the injection site or device placement.
- Rare complications like chemical meningitis or neurological symptoms.
At Kingsway Hospitals, every procedure is conducted under strict aseptic conditions, and potential side effects are carefully monitored and managed.
Advanced Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy at Kingsway Hospitals
Kingsway Hospitals, Nagpur, is a premier center for advanced cancer therapies, including intra-thecal chemotherapy. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Saurabh Prasad, the hospital ensures:
- Comprehensive Diagnostics
Advanced imaging and biomarker testing to determine CNS involvement and treatment suitability.
Regular monitoring to evaluate treatment efficacy and adjust protocols as needed.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Dedicated facilities for safe and precise drug administration.
Availability of Ommaya reservoir implantation for patient convenience.
- Multidisciplinary Expertise
A team of oncologists, neurosurgeons, and radiologists collaborate to design and deliver individualized care plans.
- Patient-Centric Approach
Focused on patient comfort and safety during procedures.
Comprehensive counseling for patients and families about the treatment process, benefits, and risks.
Future of Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy
Innovations in drug formulations and delivery methods are paving the way for more effective CNS cancer treatments. Research into nanoparticles, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and combination therapies promises to expand the scope and success of intra-thecal chemotherapy in the coming years.
Why Choose Kingsway Hospitals for Intra-Thecal Chemotherapy?
Kingsway Hospitals is committed to providing cutting-edge cancer care with a focus on precision, safety, and patient well-being. Dr. Saurabh Prasad’s expertise and the hospital’s advanced resources make it a trusted choice for intra-thecal chemotherapy in Nagpur.
Contact Kingsway Hospitals
To learn more about intra-thecal chemotherapy or schedule a consultation with Dr. Saurabh Prasad, reach out to Kingsway Hospitals today. Together, we strive to provide the best possible care and outcomes for every patient.
