Vaccine therapy

When harmful invaders like viruses or bacteria enter the body, the immune system takes action to stop them. However, the body doesn’t naturally recognize cancer cells as a threat, so no immune response is triggered. Cancer vaccines are a type of immunotherapy that teaches the immune system to identify and eliminate cancer cells. At Penn Medicine, our medical oncologists are recognized for their expertise in using vaccines to boost the immune system as part of cancer treatment.

Types of cancer vaccines

Cancer vaccines train the body’s immune system to prevent or treat certain types of cancer. These vaccines are categorized based on their intended outcome and function, and each one has different methods and targets.

Preventative vaccines for cancer

Therapeutic cancer vaccines

Personalized neoantigen vaccines

Who is a candidate for cancer vaccine therapy?

Vaccine therapy is not appropriate for all diseases or cancer types. Your doctor will review your medical history to determine which cancer treatments are best for you. At Penn Medicine, we use vaccine therapy to treat:

What to expect from the vaccine therapy process

Cancer vaccines are typically administered through injection, like other vaccines. The number of doses required for each cancer vaccine varies depending on the vaccine type and the specific cancer. Some vaccines only need to be administered once, while others may require multiple doses over weeks, months, or years. Your care team will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure you are well informed and know what to expect before your treatment starts.

Managing recovery after a cancer vaccine

Recovering after receiving a cancer vaccine can be a unique experience for each patient, with side effects that vary depending on the specific vaccine and your individual health. Some common reactions to immunization for cancer include:

Redness or swelling at the injection site
Fatigue
Fever
Muscle aches

It’s important to communicate openly with your care team about any discomfort you experience, as they can offer strategies to help ease your symptoms. Taking time to rest, staying hydrated, and finding support from loved ones can also make the recovery process smoother and more manageable.

A pioneering approach to cancer vaccines

When you choose Penn Medicine for cancer vaccine treatment, you benefit from a legacy of groundbreaking medical innovations, including pioneering advancements in immunotherapy. Penn Medicine has been leading the way in developing personalized cancer vaccines and cell-based therapies like CAR T cell therapy, which trains the immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells. We also provide expert oncology navigators to guide you through every step of your treatment, so you have personalized support and access to the best resources available.

National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center badge on top of shot of hospital

Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute

Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.