Immunotherapy for cancer in Mohali: Is it right for you & what does it cost?

This comprehensive guide explains how cancer immunotherapy works, who may benefit, common side effects and monitoring, typical costs in Mohali and Punjab, and how to choose the best immunotherapy hospital in the region. If you or a loved one are exploring advanced oncology options, this article will help you make informed decisions and understand local resources such as Livasa Hospitals (Livasa Mohali) for consultations and treatment. For appointments call +91 80788 80788 or book online at Livasa Hospitals appointment.

What is cancer immunotherapy?

Cancer immunotherapy is a class of treatments that harnesses the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells. Unlike traditional treatments that directly target tumours (surgery) or cancer cell proliferation (chemotherapy, radiotherapy), immunotherapy stimulates, restores, or modifies immune responses so the patient’s own defenses can fight cancer more effectively. Over the last decade, immunotherapy has moved from experimental to standard of care for several cancers, transforming outcomes for many patients worldwide.

There are different immunotherapy strategies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapies (such as CAR-T cells), cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and cytokine treatments. Each approach works differently: some release the brakes on immune cells, some train immune cells to recognise unique tumour markers, and others use engineered immune cells to attack tumours. In Mohali and the broader Punjab region, these options are increasingly available at advanced oncology centres like Livasa Mohali, where multidisciplinary teams coordinate testing, treatment planning and follow-up.

Understanding immunotherapy requires appreciating its strengths and limitations. It can produce durable responses — meaning long-term disease control — for cancers that previously had poor outcomes. However, it is not universally effective; patient selection through biomarkers and clinical judgement is essential. For residents searching for “cancer immunotherapy Mohali” or “immunotherapy hospital Mohali”, it is important to consult an oncologist for immunotherapy Mohali who can discuss eligibility, expected benefits and risks specific to the cancer type.

How does immunotherapy work and what makes it different?

Immunotherapy leverages the immune system's natural ability to distinguish healthy cells from abnormal ones. Cancer cells often hide from immune surveillance by exploiting regulatory pathways or presenting few distinguishing antigens. Immunotherapy aims to restore immune recognition or boost immune cell activity. Key mechanisms include:

• Checkpoint blockade: Drugs block inhibitory receptors (e.g., PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4) that cancer uses to switch off T cells.
• Adoptive cell therapy: Patient’s immune cells are collected, modified or expanded, and re-infused (e.g., CAR-T therapy).
• Cancer vaccines: Stimulate an immune response against tumour-specific antigens.
• Immune-modulating cytokines and antibodies: Boost overall immune activity or direct antibodies to target cancer cells.

Immunotherapy often produces different side effect profiles compared with chemotherapy. Many side effects are immune-related (autoimmune-type) rather than general toxicity, and can affect skin, endocrine glands, lungs, liver and bowel. Management requires early recognition and sometimes temporary immunosuppression (e.g., steroids). Because of these differences, hospital infrastructure that includes experienced medical oncologists, trained nursing staff, and access to supportive services is essential — reasons why patients prefer established centres such as Livasa Hospitals immunotherapy Mohali.

Finally, responses to immunotherapy may take longer to appear and sometimes show a phenomenon called “pseudoprogression” where tumours appear larger before shrinking due to immune cell infiltration. Oncologists in Mohali who specialise in advanced oncology options will monitor using imaging and biomarkers, and will distinguish true progression from immunologic changes.

Who is eligible for immunotherapy in Mohali?

Eligibility for immunotherapy depends on cancer type, prior treatments, performance status, and specific biomarkers. An expert consultation (search for “immunotherapy consultation Mohali” or “oncologist for immunotherapy Mohali”) usually includes history, physical exam, blood tests, imaging, and molecular testing of tumour tissue. Common eligibility considerations include:

• Cancer type: FDA and international approvals exist for lung cancer, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, certain head-and-neck cancers, Hodgkin lymphoma and more. In Mohali, immunotherapy for lung cancer, melanoma and certain breast cancers is increasingly offered.
• Biomarkers: PD-L1 expression, mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) / microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), and tumour mutational burden (TMB) guide treatment choice and predict response.
• Previous therapies: Some agents are approved for first-line use while others are used after chemotherapy or targeted therapy fails.
• Overall health: Patients with active autoimmune disease or poor performance status may require special assessment.

In practice, a personalised evaluation at a centre such as Livasa Mohali includes molecular pathology review and tumour board discussion where medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists and surgeons decide the best approach. If you are asking “is immunotherapy right for me Mohali?”, schedule an immunotherapy consultation Mohali to review your case and available tests.

Types of immunotherapy: options available in Mohali

Modern immunotherapy comprises several modalities. Hospitals in Mohali and greater Punjab now provide many of these under specialised programs. Below is an explanation of the main types, their typical uses and what patients can expect.

• Checkpoint inhibitor therapy (PD-1 / PD-L1 / CTLA-4): These monoclonal antibodies remove inhibitory signals on T cells. Common agents include pembrolizumab, nivolumab, atezolizumab and ipilimumab. Widely used for lung cancer, melanoma, urothelial cancer and more.
• Adoptive cell therapy (CAR-T and TIL): Patient T cells are engineered to target cancer-specific antigens. CAR-T is approved for certain blood cancers; TILs (tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes) are in development and used in select centres.
• Cancer vaccines: Therapeutic vaccines are designed to induce or strengthen tumour-specific immune responses. Some are experimental in clinical trials available in tertiary centres.
• Monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs): Target specific proteins on cancer cells and may be combined with immune approaches.
• Cytokine therapy: Use of immune-signalling proteins like interleukins or interferons to stimulate immune response; used in specific settings.

The choice depends on the cancer type, molecular markers and whether treatment is curative or palliative. For instance, checkpoint inhibitors are commonly standard of care for non-small cell lung cancer with certain PD-L1 levels, while CAR-T is reserved for selected relapsed/refractory hematologic malignancies. If you want personalised guidance, the multidisciplinary team at Livasa Hospitals Mohali can explain which modalities are accessible, including participation in immunotherapy clinical trials Mohali when appropriate.

Immunotherapy versus chemotherapy: how they compare

Patients frequently ask how immunotherapy compares to chemotherapy. Both are important cancer treatments but work differently and have distinct outcomes, side effects and costs. The table below summarises the main differences to help patients and families weigh options when discussing treatment plans with oncologists in Mohali and Punjab.

In many cases, treatments are combined. For example, chemotherapy plus immunotherapy can improve outcomes in some lung cancers. Your oncologist in Mohali will review evidence, tumour biology, health status and patient preferences before recommending a sequence or combination.

Common indications: which cancers respond well to immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy has proven benefit in several tumours; availability and approvals evolve rapidly. Common indications where immunotherapy is frequently used include:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Checkpoint inhibitors are standard in many advanced settings.
• Melanoma: Has dramatic responses to checkpoint inhibitors and combination therapies.
• Renal cell carcinoma: Several immunotherapy combinations are approved.
• Urothelial (bladder) cancer: Checkpoint inhibitors used in advanced disease.
• Head and neck cancers: Selected agents approved for recurrent/metastatic disease.
• Certain breast cancers: Triple-negative breast cancer with PD-L1 positivity may benefit from immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy.
• Hematologic cancers: CAR-T therapy for select lymphomas and leukemias; checkpoint inhibitors for Hodgkin lymphoma.

In Mohali and the wider Punjab region, oncologists are seeing increasing use of immunotherapy for lung cancer, certain breast cancers, melanoma and urothelial cancer. If you are researching “immunotherapy for lung cancer Mohali”, “immunotherapy for breast cancer Mohali” or “immunotherapy for melanoma Mohali”, bring pathology reports and prior imaging to your first consultation so the team can assess eligibility and plan appropriate next steps.

Side effects and how they are managed in hospitals like Livasa Mohali

Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are the hallmark side effects of many immunotherapies. These occur because activated immune cells can attack healthy tissues. Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent severe complications and to allow patients to continue effective therapy when possible.

Common immune-related side effects include:

• Skin: Rash, itching
• Gastrointestinal: Diarrhoea, colitis
• Endocrine: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, adrenal insufficiency
• Respiratory: Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
• Hepatic: Hepatitis (raised liver enzymes)

Management strategies offered at well-equipped centres such as Livasa Hospitals include:

• Early detection: Regular monitoring visits, blood tests and symptom education for patients and caregivers.
• Graded intervention: Mild symptoms may be observed or given symptomatic treatment; moderate to severe irAEs generally require temporary treatment interruption and corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants.
• Multidisciplinary care: Endocrinology, pulmonology, gastroenterology and dermatology input for organ-specific toxicities.
• Patient education: Clear instructions on when to seek immediate care (e.g., breathing difficulty, severe diarrhoea, severe fatigue) and contact numbers for rapid access.

If you experience new symptoms during immunotherapy, contact your treating team immediately. For consultations in Mohali, call Livasa Mohali at +91 80788 80788 to speak to an oncology nurse or schedule an urgent review.

Cost of immunotherapy in Mohali and options for affordability

Cost is a key concern for patients exploring immunotherapy. Prices vary widely by drug, dosing frequency, duration of treatment and whether combination therapy is used. In India, checkpoint inhibitor drugs are relatively expensive, and total cost depends on the number of cycles required. Below are typical ranges and factors that influence cost in Mohali and Punjab:

• Per-dose drug cost: Checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab or nivolumab commonly range from approximately ₹80,000 to ₹250,000 per dose (varies with vial size and negotiated institutional pricing). These are indicative ranges and fluctuate with market dynamics and generic availability.
• Number of doses: Many regimens involve dosing every 2–4 weeks for months; cumulative costs depend on response and planned maintenance duration.
• Hospital fees: Day-care infusion charges, premedication, monitoring tests (blood tests, imaging), and doctor consultation fees add to total cost.
• Specialised therapies (CAR-T): CAR-T therapy is highly specialised and can cost several lakhs to crores in global contexts; availability in India is limited and requires referral to specialised centres.
• Clinical trials: Participation in an approved clinical trial may provide access to newer immunotherapies at reduced or no drug cost but involves strict eligibility criteria.

The table below gives a simplified comparative cost overview for common immunotherapy categories as encountered in Mohali and nearby centres. These are broad ranges meant for planning; precise estimates will be provided after consultation.

Many patients ask, “how much does immunotherapy cost in Mohali?” and the honest answer is: it depends. The best way to get a tailored cost estimate is to schedule an immunotherapy consultation Mohali at a hospital like Livasa Mohali, where the team will provide an itemised cost projection including drugs, infusion charges and monitoring. Livasa Hospitals also assists patients with insurance queries, payment plans, and information on financial support where available. For guidance, call +91 80788 80788.

Insurance coverage and financial assistance options in Punjab

Coverage for immunotherapy under health insurance in India varies by policy, insurer and the specific drug or indication. Some public and private insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for approved indications; others may exclude novel or very high-cost therapies. When seeking coverage for immunotherapy cost Punjab or Mohali, patients should:

• Check policy details: Verify whether biologics, monoclonal antibodies, or specific drugs are covered and if pre-authorization is required.
• Obtain pre-authorization: Hospitals like Livasa Hospitals can assist with documentation and prior approvals to the insurer.
• Explore government schemes: Depending on eligibility, state or central schemes may subsidise certain cancer treatments.
• Consider hospital financial counselling: Many centres provide counselling on instalment plans, charitable funds, pharmaceutical assistance programs, or clinical trial enrollment.

If you are concerned about “immunotherapy cost Punjab” or “immunotherapy package cost Mohali”, ask your treating team for a written estimate and contact the hospital’s insurance desk before starting therapy. Livasa Mohali has a dedicated support team to help clarify insurance entitlements and to explore potential avenues for financial assistance.

Clinical trials and personalized immunotherapy in Mohali

Clinical trials are essential for advancing immunotherapy and are an option for patients who may not qualify for standard treatments or who wish to access novel agents. Trials test new checkpoint inhibitors, combination regimens, personalised vaccines, and cell therapies. Participation may offer access to cutting-edge care funded by sponsors, but eligibility criteria are strict and monitoring is intensive.

Personalised immunotherapy — such as therapy guided by tumour genomics, neoantigen vaccines, or engineered T cells — is an expanding field. Local tertiary centres in Punjab increasingly collaborate with national and international research institutions to provide trial access. For patients asking “immunotherapy clinical trials Mohali” or “personalized immunotherapy Mohali”, the recommended steps are:

• Discuss trial options during your oncology consultation.
• Bring previous pathology and molecular testing reports to allow fast eligibility assessment.
• Understand the trial’s objectives, potential benefits, risks and patient obligations (visits, additional tests).
• Consult with a clinical trials coordinator to review informed consent and logistics.

Livasa Hospitals Mohali encourages eligible patients to consider trials when appropriate and provides the necessary infrastructure and oversight. If you are interested in trial participation or personalised immunotherapy, contact the oncology department to learn about currently open protocols and screening procedures.

How to choose the right immunotherapy hospital and oncologist in Mohali

Choosing the right centre and physician impacts treatment quality and outcomes. When selecting an immunotherapy hospital in Mohali or elsewhere in Punjab consider:

• Multidisciplinary teams: Access to medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, pathology, radiology and supportive care.
• Experienced immunotherapy doctors: Subspeciality-trained oncologists with experience in immune-related toxicities and the specific cancer type.
• Infrastructure: Day-care infusion suites, emergency response for severe irAEs, laboratory and imaging support, and allied specialties for management of side effects.
• Clinical trial participation: Centres engaged in research often provide access to newer therapies.
• Patient support services: Financial counselling, nursing support, nutritional and rehabilitation services and easy appointment systems.

For residents seeking “best immunotherapy hospital in Punjab” or “best cancer immunotherapy hospital Mohali”, Livasa Hospitals Mohali offers a comprehensive oncology program that integrates diagnostics, personalised treatment planning, advanced infusions and follow-up care. Call +91 80788 80788 for an immunotherapy consultation or to speak with an oncology coordinator about treatment options and expected costs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Here are concise answers to common questions patients ask when considering immunotherapy in Mohali:

• Am I a candidate? Eligibility depends on cancer type, biomarkers (PD-L1, MSI, TMB), prior therapy and overall health. A specialist evaluation in Mohali is essential.
• How long does treatment last? Many patients receive therapy every 2–4 weeks for several months; duration depends on response and tolerability.
• Can immunotherapy cure cancer? For some patients, immunotherapy produces long-term remission; for others it controls disease or extends survival. Goals vary by situation.
• Is treatment painful? Immunotherapy is typically given by IV infusion and is not painful, though side effects can occur.
• Will insurance cover it? Coverage varies; obtain prior authorisation and consult hospital insurance counsellors who can assist in Mohali and Punjab.

For personalised answers, book an immunotherapy consultation Mohali or call +91 80788 80788 to talk directly with an oncologist at Livasa Hospitals.

Conclusion: is immunotherapy right for you in Mohali?

Immunotherapy has changed the landscape of cancer care, offering powerful and sometimes durable responses for many cancers. Whether it is the right option for you depends on tumour biology, available evidence for your disease, prior treatments and your overall health. In Mohali and Punjab, access to immunotherapy is expanding, but optimal outcomes depend on expert selection, careful monitoring and multidisciplinary support.

If you are considering immunotherapy, the next practical steps are:

1. Gather pathology and imaging reports.
2. Book an immunotherapy consultation with an experienced oncologist in Mohali.
3. Request molecular testing (PD-L1, MSI, NGS) if not already done.
4. Discuss cost, insurance pre-authorisation and available financial support.

Livasa Hospitals — Livasa Mohali provides a patient-centered oncology program with experience in immunotherapy, molecular diagnostics, clinical trials and comprehensive supportive care. To speak to a specialist, call +91 80788 80788 or book an appointment online. Early discussion with an expert helps determine whether immunotherapy, alone or in combination, offers the best chance for your condition.