Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to:

• kill cancer cells
• slow the growth of cancer cells

The treatment can be given directly into the vein or by mouth.

How does it work?

Chemotherapy enters the bloodstream and travels to all parts of the body to reach cancer cells that may have spread beyond the breast. A combination of drugs is used to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

When is chemotherapy indicated?

Chemotherapy may be given after the initial surgery to remove the tumor.  

Learn more about chemotherapy at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.