How is tumor sensitivity determined in patients undergoing chemotherapy?

Determining tumor sensitivity in patients undergoing chemotherapy is primarily based on histological tests and biomarkers. This approach involves analyzing tumor samples obtained from biopsies to examine the cancer's characteristics at a cellular level. These tests can identify specific genetic mutations, protein expressions, and molecular features that are indicative of how a tumor will respond to particular chemotherapy agents.

For example, certain biomarkers can predict whether a tumor will be resistant or sensitive to specific drugs. This allows healthcare providers to tailor chemotherapy regimens to individual patients, improving treatment efficacy and minimizing unnecessary side effects.

While patient self-reporting, imaging studies, and symptom diaries can provide helpful information about the patient's overall health and response to treatment, they do not directly assess the tumor’s sensitivity. Imaging studies may show changes in tumor size or appearance but do not provide the cellular or molecular data necessary to determine sensitivity. Similarly, patient symptom diaries might track treatment side effects or quality of life but do not offer insights into how the tumor itself is likely to respond to chemotherapy. Thus, the use of histological tests and biomarkers is the most reliable method for assessing tumor sensitivity.