Types of Oncologists and Their Specialties in Oncology
Oncologists perform various functions according to the type of cancer and the treatments they use. All oncologists undergo similar basic training in medicine and surgery and then build a profile by focusing on certain types of cancer.
To know more, check out the types of oncologists listed below. They are listed in alphabetical order by specialization.
Medical oncologists are highly skilled doctors who specialize in treating cancer. They administer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments that can kill cancer cells.
These physicians also provide palliative care for cancer patients and are trained to provide treatment that can slow the disease's spread. After completing post-graduate training in medicine, medical oncologists complete super-specialty training in oncology.
Surgical oncologists are skilled in performing cancer surgeries. They specialize in specific types of surgeries, such as prostate cancer surgery. Other surgeons specialize in specific cancer types, such as thoracic surgeons for lung surgery.
They are experienced in managing common complications that may occur during surgery. The doctor may also schedule routine tests to monitor how patients are responding to therapy. Some tests may be performed regularly for 2 or 3 years, depending on the patient's cancer.
A top oncologist in India, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, MD, is one of the leading doctors in the country. He completed his MBBS degree from the G.S.V.M Medical College in Kanpur and has a lifetime membership with the Association of Surgeons of India and the Indian Association of Surgical Oncology.
He is also an honorary research fellow at Oxford University.
Among the most common types of oncologists, radiation oncologists are particularly skilled in this field. Radiation therapy helps shrink tumors and alleviate cancer-related symptoms.
Other oncology subspecialties include gynecologic oncologists, who specialize in cancer of the female reproductive system. Hematologic oncologists treat cancers of the blood, while neuro-oncologists treat diseases of the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves.
Oncologists are specialized doctors who treat cancer through systematic therapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. To become an oncologist, you must complete four years of medical school, including a residency, and then earn a post-graduate degree in oncology.
You must also have post-graduation in internal medicine and pediatrics to become an oncologist.
Oncologists are highly trained medical specialists specializing in cancer. They may specialize in a particular type of cancer or a particular part of the body. They may be involved in cancer research and clinical teaching, as well as contribute to ethical issues.
Surgical oncologists perform operations and remove tumors. Surgical oncologists take tissue samples from the body for lab analysis. Radiation oncologists use radiation to treat cancer.
Medical oncologists must determine the type and stage of cancer a patient has, as this will determine the course of treatment. X-rays and bone scans are common tests for cancer staging.
Pathologists examine cells using a microscope and write reports based on their findings, including the type, stage, and treatment. They may also perform clinical trials and research on cancer to find the best treatments.