Indications to perform chemotherapy for cancer are based on which criteria?

• A. Based on tumor type and characteristics
• B. Based on patient age alone
• C. Based on geographic location
• D. Based on surgeon's favorite treatment

Answer: (A)

Indications for chemotherapy are driven by tumor biology—the type of cancer and its specific characteristics determine whether systemic treatment is likely to be effective. The biology of the tumor, including histology, grade and stage, and in many cancers, receptor status or molecular markers, guides which drugs are chosen and whether chemo will be beneficial. For example, certain tumors show predictable chemosensitivity based on their cell type or genetic features, and the regimen is tailored to those properties. The patient’s age, geographic location, or a surgeon’s personal preference do not determine whether chemotherapy is indicated; those factors don’t reflect the tumor’s biology or likely response.