Targeted cancer therapy is a treatment that works by relying on the unique characteristics of cancer cells that distinguish them from healthy cells. The mechanism of action varies depending on the type of treatment and the characteristics that distinguish cancer cells from healthy cells. Not all cancer cells carry genetic mutations or characteristics that distinguish them from healthy cells.
It is also worth noting that these unique characteristics may be due to the presence of a genetic mutation in the cancer cell or the presence of a specific protein found in cancer cells in greater quantities. This makes the treatment more effective in killing cancer cells and reduces the resulting damage to other cells in the body.
In general, we can say that in order to determine the optimal targeted therapy for a specific cancer, a biopsy will be performed to examine the targets. Targeted therapy can be used alone, but it is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. This depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient's condition to determine your comprehensive treatment plan.
There are several types of targeted therapy for cancer, the most important of which include the following:
This type of targeted therapy prevents the formation of new vessels that feed cancer cells.
Monoclonal antibodies work by blocking target cells located outside the cell or on the cell surface, thereby killing the cancer cell or preventing cell division or growth. It is worth noting that some monoclonal antibodies have radioactive materials attached to them to enhance their effectiveness in destroying cancer cells. It is also worth noting that monoclonal antibody drugs are usually administered intravenously.
Proteasome inhibitors disrupt normal cell functions, thereby causing cancer cells to die.
Signal transduction inhibitors disrupt cell signals, altering the behavior of cancer cells.
Lung Cancer
Breast Cancer
Kidney Cancer
Liver Cancer
Cancer Colon
Head and Neck Cancer
Ovarian Cancer
Lymphoma
Targeted therapy works by affecting the division and proliferation of cancer cells, preventing their spread and metastasis from one organ to another in several ways. It's worth noting that many of these treatments focus on the proteins responsible for managing the cell's communication system, affecting their functions and activity by sending signals to them that serve as commands for them to execute.
We also note in this context that before receiving treatment, the patient needs to undergo testing to determine whether a gene or receptor exists that is capable of responding to the targeted therapy.
The duration of targeted therapy for cancer varies depending on the type of cancer, the type of treatment used, the stage of the cancer, the patient's condition, and the patient's response to treatment. The treating physician will conduct an evaluation and determine the appropriate treatment plan for each patient.
The patient should talk to their physician to understand the benefits of targeted therapy for their individual condition and determine the best treatment option. Patients should also adhere to their physician's recommendations and prescribed dosages to achieve the best results.
Side effects of targeted therapy for cancer vary depending on the type of treatment, the type and stage of cancer, the patient's condition, and other factors. In general, the most common side effects include:
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