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Patients with small intestine cancer may receive chemotherapy as part of their treatment. Chemotherapy uses strong medications to destroy cancerous cells; each patient may be prescribed a different dosage or combination of medications based on the stage and cell type of his or her cancer. Certain cancers, such as adenocarcinomas of the small intestine, aren’t very responsive to the chemotherapy drugs currently in existence.

However, researchers are constantly investigating new chemo medications to find more effective options for patients with small intestine cancer. In the meantime, existing medications can be provided in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy, to offer patients the best possible outcomes and quality of life.

At Moffitt Cancer Center, we have a team of expert medical oncologists who work hand in hand with each patient’s surgeons, radiation oncologists and other providers to determine the most promising treatment plan. Working as a collaborative tumor board, these oncologists take into account:

  • Which chemotherapy drugs (and dosing regimens/delivery schedules) have been most effective for the patient’s specific type and stage of cancer in past studies
  • Whether the patient will be able to tolerate the potential side effects of chemotherapy, as well as which supportive care options can be used to help reduce any nausea, fatigue and discomfort that occur
  • Whether a patient might be eligible to participate in a clinical trial, through which he or she could access a promising new chemotherapy drug that is not yet available in other settings
  • Which other treatments might be beneficial for the patient, such as biological therapy, radiation therapy or surgery

Moffitt’s expert medical oncologists can provide additional information about a patient’s options for small intestine cancer chemotherapy. Referrals are not required; call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.