Best Medical Oncologists in chennai (52 doctors)

Book Appointment for Oncologist in Chennai

Scheduling an appointment with a top oncologist in Chennai is now easier than ever with Apollo 24|7. Our online platform lets you book consultations quickly and conveniently, giving you access to the best oncologists in Chennai. With Apollo’s trusted network of hospitals and clinics, you’ll receive top-notch care from experienced oncologists. Don’t wait—book your appointment today and take the first step towards expert cancer care and peace of mind.

Who is an Oncologist?

An oncologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. After completing their MBBS degree, they pursue postgraduate training in internal medicine or surgery, followed by a specialised doctorate in medical oncology. Oncologists are experts in various types of cancer, including solid tumours and haematological malignancies. They play a crucial role in diagnosing cancer through various tests, developing personalised treatment plans, and providing follow-up care to improve patients' quality of life. Oncologists also focus on preventive care, offering guidance on cancer screening and lifestyle modifications to reduce cancer risk.

What Do Oncologists Do?

The best oncologists in Chennai offer a comprehensive range of services to diagnose, treat, and manage various types of cancer. As highly skilled cancer specialists, the top oncologists in Chennai utilise cutting-edge technologies and evidence-based approaches to provide the highest quality of care to their patients. Some of the key responsibilities of oncologists in Chennai include:

• Conducting diagnostic tests such as biopsies, imaging studies (e.g., CT scans, MRIs, PET scans), and blood tests to detect and stage cancer

• Performing procedures like bone marrow aspiration and lumbar puncture for diagnosis and treatment

• Administering chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy to treat various types of cancer

• Collaborating with radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment plans

Why Visit an Oncologist?

Consulting with the best oncologists in Chennai is crucial for the early detection, effective treatment, and long-term management of cancer. Here are some key reasons why you should visit an oncologist:

• Unusual symptoms: If you experience persistent symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, unexplained bleeding, or a lump or swelling, it's essential to consult an oncologist for evaluation.

• Abnormal screening results: If your routine cancer screening tests (e.g., mammogram, Pap smear, colonoscopy) show abnormal findings, an oncologist can perform further diagnostic tests and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

• Family history of cancer: If you have a strong family history of cancer, an oncologist can assess your risk, recommend genetic testing if necessary, and provide guidance on preventive measures.

• Post-treatment follow-up: After completing cancer treatment, regular follow-up visits with an oncologist are essential to monitor for recurrence, manage long-term side effects, and ensure the best possible outcomes.

• Palliative care: For patients with advanced or terminal cancer, oncologists provide palliative care to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and offer emotional support to both patients and their families.

Early detection and timely intervention are key to successful cancer treatment. By visiting the top oncologists in Chennai, you can benefit from their expertise in diagnosing cancer at its earliest stages, accessing the most advanced treatment options, and receiving personalised care that addresses your unique needs and concerns.

What Diseases or Conditions Do Oncologists Treat?

The best oncologists doctor in Chennai treat a wide range of diseases and conditions related to cancer. These highly skilled professionals are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage various types of cancer, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and effective care possible. Some of the most common conditions that oncologists in Chennai treat include:

• Breast cancer

• Lung cancer

• Colorectal cancer

• Prostate cancer

• Skin cancers (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma)

• Leukaemia

• Lymphoma

• Multiple myeloma

• Brain and spinal cord tumours

• Gynaecologic cancers (ovarian, cervical, uterine, and vaginal)

• Head and neck cancers

• Gastrointestinal cancers (oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, and liver)

In addition to treating cancer, the best oncologists doctor in Chennai also manages cancer-related symptoms and complications, such as pain, nausea, fatigue, anaemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. They may also address precancerous conditions like dysplasia or carcinoma in situ.

How Often Should You See an Oncologist?

Visiting the best oncologists in Chennai is crucial for cancer patients to receive the proper care and treatment. The frequency of these visits depends on various factors, such as the type and stage of cancer and the patient's overall health and response to treatment. Here are some general guidelines for how often different types of patients should see an oncologist:

• High-risk patients: Individuals with aggressive or advanced cancers may need to visit their oncologist every 1-4 weeks during active treatment, depending on the therapy and response. After completing treatment, follow-up visits may be scheduled every 3-4 months for the first 2-3 years, then once or twice a year.

• Low-risk patients: Those eligible for active surveillance may have fewer visits. For example, prostate cancer patients under active surveillance may undergo PSA testing every 3-6 months, a digital rectal exam annually, and a prostate biopsy every 2-5 years.

• Patients with a family history of cancer: Such patients may require regular screenings and genetic counselling, with the frequency determined by their individual risk factors and specific screening recommendations.

• Periodic evaluations: Evaluations are essential for patients who have completed cancer treatment. These typically include physical exams, blood tests, and other necessary tests tailored to the patient's cancer type and treatment history, aiming to monitor for recurrence or late effects of treatment.

What are the Procedures Performed by an Oncologist?

The top oncologists in Chennai perform a variety of diagnostic and treatment procedures to manage cancer effectively. These procedures are crucial in identifying the type and stage of cancer, as well as determining the most appropriate course of treatment for each individual patient. Some of the common procedures performed by the best oncologists doctor in Chennai include:

• Biopsies: Removing a sample of tissue or cells to examine for cancer cells.

• Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, and X-rays to visualise tumours and assess their size and location.

• Blood tests: Checking for tumour markers, complete blood counts, and other indicators of cancer or its impact on the body.

• Genetic testing: Identifying genetic mutations that may increase the risk of certain cancers or influence treatment options.

• Chemotherapy: Administering medications to kill cancer cells, either intravenously or orally.

• Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, which can be external beam radiation therapy or internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy).

• Surgery: Removing tumours or affected tissues surgically can be curative or palliative.

• Targeted therapy: Using medications that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival.

• Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells.

• Hormone therapy: Blocking hormones that fuel cancer growth in hormone-sensitive cancers, such as some breast and prostate cancers.

• Pain management: Interventions to control pain, including medications, nerve blocks, and other therapies.

• Symptom management: Addressing symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

The best oncologist in Chennai will work closely with you to determine which procedures are necessary for your specific condition and will guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.

Can Oncologists Perform Surgical Operations?

Oncologists who are not surgical oncologists do not perform surgical operations. Their role focuses on diagnosing and managing cancer through non-surgical methods like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Medical and radiation oncologists work closely with surgical oncologists, who are trained surgeons specialising in the surgical aspects of cancer treatment. While oncologists are essential in developing comprehensive cancer treatment plans, they do not perform the surgical procedures themselves. Surgical oncologists, on the other hand, have advanced training in the surgical management of cancer and work in conjunction with medical and radiation oncologists to provide complete care.

Oncology vs. Radiology: What's the Difference?

What Does a Visit to an Oncologist Cost in Chennai?

The cost of visiting an oncologist in Chennai can vary depending on factors such as the type of consultation (first-time or follow-up), tests, and diagnostic procedures required. On average, a first-time consultation with a top oncologist in Chennai can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000. Follow-up consultations are generally less expensive, ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500. Basic tests like ECG and ECHO can cost between ₹500 to ₹2,000. However, more advanced diagnostic procedures such as biopsies, CT scans, or MRIs can significantly increase the overall cost. It's essential to consider these factors when budgeting for cancer treatment in Chennai.

How Can I Find the Best Oncologist in Chennai Near Me?

Apollo 24|7 makes it simple to find a top oncologist in Chennai. Use our app to explore profiles of experienced cancer specialists, check their credentials, and read reviews from patients. Look for doctors affiliated with leading hospitals like Apollo for access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. You can also select a doctor based on proximity for easy follow-up visits. Apollo 24|7 ensures you find the best oncologist in Chennai for your specific cancer care needs.