Chemotherapy Services

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to prevent the growth of cancer cells by shrinking or killing them. The multidisciplinary team at St. Luke's Health personalizes the delivery of these drugs for each patient’s type and stage of cancer. Regardless of how it is delivered, chemotherapy is considered a systemic treatment because the medication transfers through the bloodstream to the entire body.

Chemotherapy can be administered in the following ways:

• Intravenous (IV) medication
• Oral medication
• Direct placement
• Hyperthermic intraoperative peritoneal chemotherapy
• Topical cream or lotion

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Increased risk of infection
• Nausea and vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Mouth sores or irritation
• Hair loss
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Low platelet count
• Changes in skin
• Concentration and short-term memory problems
• Menstrual irregularities or cessation

Side effects from chemotherapy are different for each patient. Talk to your physician about what to expect and how to you can cope with these side effects. Our compassionate team is committed to providing expansive resources for our cancer patients, including support groups and spiritual care.