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Targeted therapy is a specialized treatment that uses medications or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth, division, and spread. This method aims to disrupt cancer cell behavior while minimizing damage to healthy cells. An example of targeted therapy in breast cancer is the drug Herceptin (trastuzumab), which inhibits cancer cell growth.
Targeted therapy is used to treat a variety of cancers, including:
Targeted therapy includes several types of treatments that work in different ways to fight cancer:
Hormone Therapy:
These therapies either stop the body from producing hormones or block hormones from affecting cancer cells, particularly in hormone-sensitive cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
Signal Transduction Inhibitors:
These drugs block cell signaling pathways that cancer cells use to grow and divide, altering their behavior.
Apoptosis Inducers:
Apoptosis is the process by which the body eliminates unwanted or abnormal cells. Apoptosis inducers help trigger this process in cancer cells, causing them to die.
Angiogenesis Inhibitors:
These therapies prevent the formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors with oxygen and nutrients, a process known as tumor angiogenesis.
Gene Expression Modulators:
These drugs alter the expression of genes that regulate cancer cell growth and survival.
Immunotherapies:
Immunotherapies help the immune system identify and destroy cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies, which are antibodies made in the lab, can target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells to activate immune responses.
Monoclonal Antibodies:
These are engineered antibodies designed to bind to specific cancer cell targets. They can directly kill cancer cells or deliver toxic substances to them.
Before starting targeted therapy, oncologists perform several tests to identify the specific characteristics of the cancer and determine the most appropriate treatment approach:
Pathology Tests:
Tissue, blood, or stool samples are examined to identify mutated proteins or genetic changes that could serve as therapeutic targets.
Advanced Genomic Testing:
This test analyzes the genetic profile of a tumor to detect specific mutations or alterations that could influence its growth and response to treatment.
Genetic Testing:
Genetic testing identifies inherited gene mutations that may contribute to cancer development, providing valuable information for treatment decisions.
The way targeted medications are administered depends on factors such as the type of cancer and patient preferences. Targeted therapies can be delivered in the following ways:
Orally:
Medications can be taken as pills, capsules, or liquids.
By Infusion:
Drugs can be infused into a vein, muscle, or beneath the skin.
By Drip:
Medication is delivered directly into a vein through an intravenous drip.
Types of Targeted Drugs:
Small Molecule Medications:
These drugs are small enough to enter cancer cells and target specific substances within the cell.
Large Molecule Drugs:
These medications act like a “lock and key,” attaching to a specific protein or enzyme on the surface of cancer cells to block their activity.
Following targeted therapy, it’s important for patients to follow certain care guidelines:
Rest:
Fatigue is a common side effect, so it’s important to get plenty of rest.
Nutrition:
Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall health.
Skin Care:
If the therapy involves radiation, take extra care with the treated area by cleaning it gently with warm water and mild soap, avoiding cosmetics, and protecting it from the sun.
Monitor for Fever:
Notify your doctor if you experience a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
The recovery process varies for each patient, depending on factors such as overall health, the specific therapy used, and the type of cancer being treated. Many side effects subside after treatment, and healthy cells gradually recover. Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and ensure that the treatment is effective.
Targeted therapy can cause side effects, though they are often less severe than those associated with traditional chemotherapy. Common side effects include:
During treatment, your doctor will regularly assess your health and may conduct tests (such as blood tests, x-rays, or scans) to monitor side effects and treatment effectiveness.