Consult Medical Oncologists Online (88 doctors)

Medical Oncology

Booking an appointment with a top medical oncologist is now easier than ever with Apollo 24|7. Our experienced medical oncology doctors provide comprehensive care for various types of cancer. You can conveniently schedule your online or in-person consultation with a trusted medical oncologist at Apollo 24|7. Our specialist cancer doctors will help you plan your medical care, treatments, and other key lifestyle changes to manage your condition effectively. With a wide range of appointment slots available, you can choose a time that suits you best and receive the expert care you need.

What is Medical Oncology?

Medical oncology is a speciality of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. Medical oncologists use various forms of treatment such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy to treat cancer at various stages. The speciality plays a critical role in the multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, coordinating treatment plans and managing the overall health of patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The relevance of medical oncology in healthcare is profound as it contributes significantly to cancer care, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients. This speciality also engages in clinical research, seeking new and effective treatments to continue advancing the field of cancer therapy.

Who is a Medical Oncologist?

A medical oncologist is a physician who specialises in treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, biological therapies, and other targeted treatments. They require extensive training, beginning with a medical degree, followed by residency and fellowship in oncology. Medical oncologists are experts in managing side effects and complications associated with cancer treatments and play a crucial role in the long-term monitoring and follow-up of cancer patients.

Their expertise extends to understanding the complex nature of cancer development and progression, enabling them to tailor treatment plans that best suit individual patient needs and conditions. This specialisation allows them to manage various cancers effectively and to provide compassionate care during a patient’s cancer journey.

What Does a Medical Oncologist Do?

A medical oncologist specialises in the treatment and management of cancer through medication and systemic therapies. Their primary role is to formulate and execute comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific type of cancer and stage of progression.

• Diagnosis and Assessment: Medical oncologists often confirm cancer diagnoses and stage the disease using a variety of diagnostic tests. This includes interpreting laboratory results, biopsies, and imaging studies to understand the extent and specifics of the cancer.

• Treatment Planning: They develop personalised treatment plans based on the cancer type, stage, and the patient's overall health. Treatment may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or targeted therapy, among other methods.

• Administration of Therapy: Medical oncologists oversee the administration of treatments, adjusting doses and schedules based on the patient’s response and side effects.

• Patient Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the patient’s progress is essential. This involves evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment through follow-up tests, monitoring for side effects, and making necessary adjustments to the therapy.

• Supportive Care: Providing support and symptom management for side effects of cancer and its treatment is also a key part of their role. This includes prescribing medication to help with side effects, dietary advice, and psychological support.

• Research and Trials: Many medical oncologists are involved in clinical trials and research, seeking new and more effective ways to treat cancer.

• Education and Consultation: They educate patients and their families about treatment options, what to expect during treatment, and overall disease management.

What are the Other Sub-specialities of Medical Oncology?

Medical oncology encompasses several sub-specialities, each focusing on different aspects of cancer treatment and patient care. These sub-specialities cater to specific patient demographics, types of cancer, or treatment methodologies:

• Paediatric Oncology: Specialises in diagnosing and treating cancers in children, addressing the unique challenges and needs of younger patients.

• Geriatric Oncology: Focuses on cancer treatment for the elderly, considering the specific health concerns and treatment responses of older adults.

• Haematologic Oncology: Also known as hemat-oncology, this sub-speciality deals with cancers of the blood, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Specialists in this field are often referred to as chemotherapists.

• Immuno-Oncology: Involves the study and application of treatments that use the body's immune system to fight cancer, such as checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapies.

• Targeted Therapy: This is a form of cancer treatment that targets the specific genes, proteins, or the environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival, often resulting in fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

• Translational Oncology: Focuses on turning scientific research into practical applications to improve patient outcomes. This field often bridges the gap between laboratory research and patient care in clinical settings.

• Palliative Care in Oncology: Specialises in improving the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer, managing symptoms, and providing support to patients and their families.

• Oncologic Emergency Medicine: Deals with the immediate management of emergencies resulting from cancer or its treatment, such as spinal cord compression or neutropenic sepsis.

• Clinical Research and Trials: This area focuses on developing and testing new cancer treatments through organised clinical trials, essential for advancing treatment options.

• Oncogenetics: Involves studying the genetic basis of cancer and using this information to develop targeted therapies or preventative strategies.

Each of these sub-specialities plays a critical role in the comprehensive care of cancer patients. Specialists in these fields, including cancer specialists and cancer doctors, work collaboratively to tailor treatment plans that best meet the individual needs of their patients, ensuring the highest standards of care are maintained across all aspects of oncology.

What are the Medical Oncology Examinations or Tests Performed by the Medical Oncologist?

Medical oncologists perform a variety of diagnostic tests and examinations to accurately diagnose, stage, and monitor cancer. These tests are crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan for each patient.

1.Biopsies: A key diagnostic procedure where tissue samples are collected from suspected cancer areas and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

2.Blood Tests: Common tests include complete blood counts (CBC), tumour markers, and biochemical profiles to assess general health and detect abnormalities that might indicate cancer.

3.Imaging Studies: These include:

• X-rays: Basic imaging used to look for abnormal masses.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scans: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of body organs to detect tumours and assess the spread of cancer.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Offers detailed images of soft tissues in the body, used to precisely locate tumours and assess their size.

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans: Often combined with a CT scan (PET-CT), this test helps to identify active tumour cells in the body.

4.Endoscopic Examinations: Allows direct visualisation of the internal parts of the body using an endoscope. This is used to assess cancer in organs like the stomach, colon, and bladder.

5.Genetic Testing: Analyses DNA to identify inherited cancer risks and to tailor targeted therapies based on genetic mutations.

6.Bone Scans: Detects bone changes or abnormalities associated with certain cancers.

Each test provides vital information that helps the medical oncologist to formulate a comprehensive treatment strategy tailored to the patient's specific condition. To manage or diagnose a cancer condition effectively, it's advisable to book medical oncologist who can guide through these tests and their implications, ensuring optimal care and treatment outcomes.

What are the Common Conditions & Diseases that Medical Oncologists Treat?

Medical oncologists are specialists who manage a variety of cancers, each requiring tailored treatment strategies. Here are the top 15 conditions they commonly treat:

1. Breast Cancer: A malignancy of the breast tissues, often noticeable by a lump or changes in breast shape.

2. Lung Cancer: Characterised by uncontrolled cell growth in lung tissue, often due to smoking.

3. Prostate Cancer: A common cancer in men, affecting the prostate gland.

4. Colorectal Cancer: Cancer of the colon or rectum, linked to age, lifestyle, and diet.

5. Melanoma: A serious form of skin cancer that develops from pigment-containing cells known as melanocytes.

6. Leukaemia: A type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterised by the ineffective production of blood cells.

7. Lymphoma: Cancer that begins in the lymphocytes of the immune system and presents as solid tumours of lymphoid cells.

8. Ovarian Cancer: A cancer originating in the ovaries, often undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen.

9. Pancreatic Cancer: A malignant tumour within the pancreas which often goes undetected until advanced stages.

10. Kidney Cancer: Includes renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of kidney cancer in adults.

11. Bladder Cancer: Features the development of malignant cells within the urinary bladder.

12. Head and Neck Cancers: Includes cancers of the mouth, throat, and larynx.

13. Thyroid Cancer: A cancer that emerges from the thyroid gland, noticeable through nodules in the neck.

14. Endometrial Cancer: Cancer of the lining of the uterus, often detected through abnormal bleeding.

15. Oesophageal Cancer: Cancer that occurs in the oesophagus, characterised by difficulty swallowing and weight loss.

These conditions highlight the broad scope of medical oncology, encompassing various organs and requiring comprehensive treatment approaches.

Reasons to See a Medical Oncologist

Consulting a medical oncologist is crucial for anyone diagnosed with cancer or showing symptoms suggestive of the disease. Here are the primary reasons for seeking their expertise:

• Diagnosis Confirmation: To confirm a cancer diagnosis through detailed assessments and testing.

• Treatment Planning: To develop a personalised treatment plan that may include chemotherapy, radiation, and other therapies.

• Management of Symptoms and Side Effects: To manage the physical symptoms of cancer and side effects of its treatment.

• Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments: To monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.

• Advanced Therapies and Clinical Trials: To gain access to the latest treatments and clinical trials not available elsewhere.

For those unable to visit in person, an online medical oncologist consultation offers a flexible option to discuss concerns and explore treatment possibilities.

What Types of Procedures do Medical Oncologists Perform?

Medical oncologists are specialists in diagnosing and treating cancer through a variety of therapies and procedures. These interventions are crucial in managing the disease and improving patient outcomes. Below, we categorise their procedures into Top Therapies and Top Surgeries.

Top Therapies in Medical Oncology

1. Chemotherapy – Use of powerful drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

2. Immunotherapy – Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

3. Targeted Therapy – Use of drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

4. Hormonal Therapy – Treating cancers like breast or prostate by modifying hormone levels.

5. Radiation Therapy Coordination – Collaborating with radiologists to deliver precise radiation treatment.

6. Palliative Care – Managing symptoms and improving quality of life in advanced cancer stages.

7. Bone Marrow Stimulation – Stimulating bone marrow to produce healthy blood cells.

8. Genomic Testing – Analysing DNA to personalise cancer treatment plans.

Top Surgeries in Medical Oncology

1. Biopsy Procedures – Removing tissue samples for diagnosis.

2. Insertion of Port or Catheter – Facilitating long-term medication delivery.

3. Tumour Resection Assistance – Supporting surgeons during tumour removal.

4. Pleural or Peritoneal Drainage – Removing excess fluid from cancer-affected areas.

5. Debulking Surgery Collaboration – Reducing tumour size before further treatment.

6. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Identifying spread to lymph nodes.

7. Palliative Surgical Interventions – Relieving symptoms caused by cancer complications.

Consultation costs and medical oncologist fee depend on the complexity of the procedure and the treatment plan.

Why Choose an Apollo 24|7 Medical Oncologist?

Choosing a medical oncologist at Apollo 24|7 offers several advantages for cancer patients seeking high-quality, comprehensive care. Our medical oncologists are highly qualified, with extensive experience in managing various types of cancer using the latest evidence-based treatments. They provide personalised care, tailoring treatment plans to each patient's specific needs, preferences, and goals.

At Apollo 24|7, patients have access to advanced treatment options, including modern therapies and clinical trials, ensuring they receive the most effective care available. Our user-friendly platform allows patients to easily book appointments online or through the Apollo 24|7 app, ensuring convenient access to top-tier medical oncology services. 
With a holistic approach to cancer care, our medical oncologists collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to address all aspects of a patient's well-being, from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and supportive care.

What to Expect When Visiting a Medical Oncologist?

Visiting a medical oncologist is a critical step for individuals diagnosed with cancer or suspected to have the disease. These specialists provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique condition.

• Initial Consultation: Expect a thorough review of your medical history, including discussions about any symptoms, prior health issues, and family medical history.

• Diagnostic Testing: You may undergo various tests, such as blood tests, biopsies, and imaging studies, to determine the type and extent of cancer.

• Treatment Planning: The oncologist will discuss potential treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation, and other targeted therapies based on the diagnosis.

• Follow-Up Schedule: Regular follow-up visits will be planned to monitor your response to treatment and make adjustments as needed.

Patients looking to find specialised care should consider reading medical oncologist reviews to choose a reputable specialist. If location is a concern, searching for a “medical oncologist near me” can help identify conveniently located experts.

How Can I Get an Appointment With a Medical Oncologist?

To get an appointment with a medical oncologist at Apollo 24|7, you can follow these simple steps:

• Book Online: Visit the Apollo 24|7 website and navigate to the "Book Appointment" section. Select "Medical Oncology" as the speciality and choose your preferred medical oncologist from the list of available doctors. Select a convenient date and time for your appointment and provide the necessary personal and payment details to confirm your booking.

• Use the Apollo 24|7 App: Download the Apollo 24|7 app on your smartphone and log in or create a new account. Tap on the "Book Appointment" option and select "Medical Oncology" as the speciality. Choose your preferred medical oncologist, date, and time for your appointment, and complete the booking process by providing the required information.

• Call the Apollo 24|7 Helpline: If you prefer to book your appointment over the phone, you can call the Apollo 24|7 helpline. Our customer support team will assist you in selecting a medical oncologist and scheduling your appointment at a convenient time and location.

• Referral from Another Doctor: If another doctor has referred you to a medical oncologist at Apollo 24|7, you can contact our helpline or use the online booking system to schedule your appointment, mentioning the referral details.