Which tumors require chemotherapy?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Common tumors requiring chemotherapy include leukemia, lymphoma, small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and others. Chemotherapy can be used at different stages of tumor treatment, such as curative treatment, adjuvant therapy, or palliative care, with specific regimens tailored to the individual patient's condition. If a tumor is diagnosed or treatment-related discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly consult with a physician.
Tumors that commonly require chemotherapy include leukemia, lymphoma, small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. Chemotherapy can be used at different stages of tumor treatment, such as curative treatment, adjuvant therapy, or palliative care, with specific regimens tailored to the individual patient's condition. If a tumor is diagnosed or treatment-related discomfort occurs, it is recommended to communicate promptly with a physician.
1. Leukemia: A malignant tumor of the hematopoietic system, in which cancer cells are widely distributed in the bone marrow and bloodstream. Surgery cannot eliminate these cells, so chemotherapy is the primary treatment method. It helps kill cancer cells throughout the body, alleviate disease progression, prolong survival, and in some patients, achieve long-term remission.
2. Lymphoma: A malignant tumor of the lymphatic system that often affects lymph nodes and organs throughout the body. Chemotherapy specifically targets and destroys lymphoma cells systemically, controlling tumor spread. It is a core treatment approach for lymphoma and may be combined with radiotherapy to enhance effectiveness.
3. Small Cell Lung Cancer: Highly aggressive and prone to early metastasis, this type of cancer is highly sensitive to chemotherapy. Even when the tumor has spread, chemotherapy can reduce tumor size, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life.
4. Breast Cancer: Some breast cancer patients require chemotherapy—such as those with large tumors or lymph node involvement. Postoperative chemotherapy helps eliminate residual cancer cells and reduces the risk of recurrence. For advanced-stage breast cancer, chemotherapy can control tumor progression and extend survival.
5. Colorectal Cancer: Chemotherapy is indicated in advanced colorectal cancer or when high-risk factors exist after surgery (e.g., tumor penetration through the intestinal wall or lymph node metastasis). It kills metastatic cancer cells, delays disease progression, and alleviates suffering in advanced-stage patients.
During daily chemotherapy, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, increase intake of protein and vitamins, ensure adequate rest and avoid overexertion, keep emotions stable, and engage in moderate light physical activity to help the body tolerate treatment and promote recovery.
