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chemotherapy

By Trisha Torrey, About.com

Updated September 05, 2008

Definition:

Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that kills cells. It is most often recognized for its ability to kill or control cancerous cells in the body.

The type of chemicals prescribed, how they are administered (infusion, a shot, or tablet form), and for what duration of time will be based on the type and stage (how far the disease has progressed) of cancer a patient has been diagnosed with.

Also Known As: chemo
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