Precision Strike: Understanding Targeted Therapy for Cancer
Targeted therapy is a revolutionary approach in
oncology consultation and
cancer treatment representing the forefront of personalized medicine. Unlike traditional
Chemotherapy, which attacks all rapidly dividing cells,
targeted therapy identifies and interferes with specific molecules, or “targets,” in
cancer cells that are essential for their growth, division, and spread. This precision limits damage to normal, healthy cells, often leading to milder side effects than conventional treatments.
Expert Oncology Care in Nagpur
For comprehensive
oncology consultation and advanced treatment, including
targeted therapy and
Pediatric oncologist expertise, specialist care is essential.
Dr. Saurabh Prasad, an
Adult & Pediatric Oncologist,
Hemato-Oncologist &
Bone Marrow Specialist in Nagpur, offers multidisciplinary care for a wide range of solid tumors and blood malignancies. He provides expertise in complex cases, encompassing
chemotherapy,
immunotherapy,
targeted therapy,
hormone therapy, and
bone marrow procedures.
How Targeted Therapy Works
The fundamental principle of
targeted therapy is identifying the unique genetic and molecular features that drive a
cancer’s growth.
Symptoms and Causes
- Symptoms: Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, pain, or masses arise from uncontrolled tumor growth. The choice of targeted therapy is based on diagnostic tests, not just symptoms.
- Causes: Most cancers result from genetic mutations producing abnormal proteins (biomarkers) that promote cell growth. These abnormal proteins are the targets for therapy. Testing for gene mutations like EGFR, ALK, BRAF, or HER2 determines therapy suitability.
Procedure of Treatment
- Biomarker Testing (Personalization): Tumor biopsy analyzed using next-generation sequencing to identify molecular targets or gene mutations.
- Drug Administration: Targeted drugs are given intravenously (IV) or orally. Schedules vary based on drug and cancer type.
- Mechanism of Action:
- Blocking growth signals.
- Altering cancer-related proteins.
- Inducing cell death (apoptosis).
- Inhibiting angiogenesis.
- Delivering toxins directly to cancer cells.
- Combination Therapy: Often used with Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, Immunotherapy for cancer, or Hormone therapy cancer to improve outcomes.
Types and Examples of Targeted Therapy
Small-Molecule Drugs
- Small enough to enter cancer cells and act on internal targets.
- Interfere with proteins like kinases, blocking growth signals.
- Given orally, names often end with -nib (e.g., erlotinib, osimertinib).
- Examples:
- Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs): EGFR, ALK, used in Lung cancer treatment, chronic myeloid leukemia, Kidney cancer treatment.
- PARP Inhibitors: Block DNA repair, used in Ovarian cancer treatment, Prostate cancer treatment (BRCA mutations).
- BRAF/MEK Inhibitors: Target BRAF V600E mutations in Melanoma treatment and some Colon cancer treatment.
Monoclonal Antibodies (MABs)
- Lab-made immune proteins targeting cancer cell surface or tumor environment.
- Block growth-promoting receptors, mark cancer cells for immune destruction, inhibit angiogenesis.
- Administered IV; names end with -mab (e.g., trastuzumab, cetuximab).
- Examples:
- HER2/neu Inhibitors: Breast, Stomach cancer treatment, Esophageal cancer treatment.
- EGFR Inhibitors: Colon cancer treatment, Head and neck cancer treatment.
- Anti-Angiogenesis Agents (VEGF Inhibitors): Colon cancer treatment, Lung cancer treatment, Liver cancer treatment.
Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
- Monoclonal antibody linked to chemotherapy/toxin.
- Targets cancer cells directly, sparing healthy tissue.
- Examples: Certain lymphomas, breast cancer, Cervical cancer treatment.
FAQ’s
- Q: Is targeted therapy the same as Immunotherapy?
A: No. Immunotherapy boosts immune recognition, while targeted therapy attacks cancer-specific growth mechanisms. Some drugs may combine both effects.
- Q: Who is eligible?
A: Eligibility depends on identifiable targets in the tumor. Advanced testing determines candidacy.
- Q: Main side effects?
A: Fatigue, skin rashes, diarrhea/constipation, high blood pressure, organ-specific toxicity (e.g., HER2 blockers and heart).
- Q: Can cancer become resistant?
A: Yes, new mutations can cause resistance. Oncologists may switch drugs or use combination therapy.
