IMMUMEDIC · European information platform for dendritic cell therapy · No promise of cure
Progression & further options

When cancer treatment is not working sufficiently – what now?

If follow-up examinations show that cancer is progressing despite treatment, this does not automatically mean that no further options exist. The next steps depend on tumour type, course of disease, previous treatments and tumour biology.

Medically and editorially updated: 1 September 2026 · General information, not an individual treatment decision.

First assess progression accurately

It matters what has changed: individual new lesions, growth of existing tumour sites or broader progression. Imaging, clinical course and, where appropriate, repeat tissue or molecular diagnostics can influence further planning.

Subsequent lines and treatment changes

Many cancers have several lines of treatment. Depending on biomarkers and prior therapy, other systemic treatments, targeted medicines, immunotherapies, local procedures or clinical trials may be considered.

Do not stop treatment on your own

Ongoing cancer treatment should not be changed or stopped on the basis of general internet information. Benefits, side effects and alternatives need to be discussed with the treating oncology team.

Immuno-oncology options

Whether approved immunotherapies or other immunological approaches are relevant depends strongly on tumour type and biomarkers. Dendritic-cell approaches are distinct and should be assessed separately in relation to the evidence and individual situation.

Which documents are helpful?

  • current and previous imaging
  • histology/pathology
  • treatment history with doses and dates
  • molecular findings/biomarkers
  • current laboratory values and medication list
Important: This information does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment decisions. If symptoms are new, worsening or acute, or your condition deteriorates rapidly, contact your treating medical team immediately.

Have your individual medical records reviewed

Existing reports, histology, current imaging, previous treatments and – where available – molecular findings can be brought together for structured orientation.

Request a free individual therapy review

Editorial responsibility: IMMUMEDIC Limited · Portal editor Andreas Rach. Updated: 1 September 2026. No promise of cure; no recommendation to stop or delay guideline-based treatment.
ORIENTATION

Patient or medical professional?

These two pathways are intentionally separated so that enquiries can be directed appropriately.

Call Rita+49 30 439 792 5331