Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy in Gurugram
Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are the two advances that have most changed cancer treatment in the last decade. Both work differently from conventional chemotherapy, and neither is suitable for every patient. Dr. Sandeep Ramawat lectures regularly to physician audiences on both.
In summary
Short answer: Immunotherapy helps the immune system attack cancer cells; targeted therapy blocks a specific mutation or receptor on the tumour. Neither suits every patient, and both are prescribed only where testing supports a likely benefit.
- Who this page is for
- Patients and families in Gurugram, Gurgaon and Delhi NCR affected by immunotherapy and targeted therapy, or seeking a second opinion on a immunotherapy and targeted therapy treatment plan
- Currently consults at
- American Oncology Institute, Gurugram
- OPD hours
- Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Appointments
- +91 95606 83949
Key takeaways
- Different mechanisms — one works through the immune system, the other through a molecular target.
- Testing decides suitability — biomarkers such as PD-L1, ALK, EGFR and HER2.
- Not automatically better than chemotherapy — the two are often combined rather than substituted.
- Monitoring matters — immune-related effects need scheduled review.
How immunotherapy works
Short answer: Cancer cells can hide from the immune system. Immunotherapy removes that disguise, allowing the body’s own immune cells to recognise and attack the tumour. Because it works through the immune system, its side effect pattern is different from chemotherapy and needs specific monitoring.
How targeted therapy works
Targeted therapy acts on a specific molecular feature of the cancer cell, such as a gene mutation or a receptor on its surface. It is prescribed only when testing confirms the tumour carries that target, which is why molecular profiling matters before treatment begins.
Which patients are suitable
Suitability depends on the cancer type, stage, biomarker testing such as PD-L1 or specific mutations, and the patient’s general health. An honest assessment matters here, because these treatments are expensive and should only be used where evidence supports benefit.
Setting realistic expectations
These therapies have produced remarkable responses in some patients and little benefit in others. Any responsible discussion covers the likelihood of benefit, the side effects, the monitoring required, and the cost, before treatment is started.
Consulting for immunotherapy in Gurugram
Dr. Sandeep Ramawat consults at the American Oncology Institute, Gurugram. OPD hours are Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm. Please bring your biopsy report, imaging and any prior treatment records to the first visit.
Appointments: +91 95606 83949 · drsandeepramawat@gmail.com
Frequently asked questions
Neither is universally better. Immunotherapy outperforms chemotherapy for certain cancers and biomarker profiles, while chemotherapy remains the more effective choice in many other situations. The two are also frequently combined.
Yes. Because it activates the immune system, it can cause immune-related effects on the skin, thyroid, bowel, liver, lungs and other organs. Most are manageable when identified early, which is why scheduled monitoring is part of treatment.
Targeted therapy is guided by testing. Molecular profiling of the tumour tissue, and in some cases a blood-based test, shows whether the specific target is present. Without that target, the drug is unlikely to help.
Speak to Dr. Ramawat
Dr. Ramawat currently consults at the American Oncology Institute, Gurugram. Call directly or send your details on WhatsApp.