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Targeted therapy, as the name suggests, is a cancer treatment that specifically targets a person’s cancer cells and the molecules which tell the cells to grow and spread. By attacking these molecules in the cancer cell, targeted therapies aim to stop the growth of these cells.
Monoclonal antibodies are proteins that are designed to attach to specific targets on cancer cells. These antibodies work by marking cancer cells so that they can be identified and destroyed by the immune cells more efficiently. Some monoclonal antibodies attack cancer cells directly and prevent their growth or cause the cancer cells to self-destruct.
Drugs called small-molecule drugs can block the process that helps cancer cells multiply and spread.
While chemotherapy and targeted therapy are both effective methods of cancer therapy, the key difference is that chemotherapy can also kill healthy cells when eliminating cancer cells. Whereas targeted therapy preferentially targets and attacks the cancer cells, allowing the survival of healthy cells.
Targeted therapy works by altering the functions of the cancer cell, particularly on the part of the cell that makes it different from any other healthy cell. Targeted therapy interferes with the action of specific proteins that help the cancer cells to grow and spread to other organs. They work in different ways including:
Targeted therapy can be administered orally or by injection intramuscularly (into the muscle), subcutaneously (under the skin), or intravenously (through the vein).
The dose, frequency, and duration of targeted therapy vary depending on the type of cancer. Some patients are prescribed daily dosing of these medications while some patients need to follow a monthly dosing schedule.
Most cases of chronic myeloid leukaemia are caused by a gene called BCR-ABL. This gene leads to the production of an enzyme called the BCR-ABL protein which causes normal myeloid cells to start behaving like cancer cells. This was the first cancer to be treated with targeted therapy.
In lymphoma, there is an overproduction of B cells which is a white blood cell that fights infections. Targeted therapy drugs block the enzyme that leads to this overproduction of B cells.
The side effects of targeted therapy drugs are generally well tolerated in comparison to those of conventional chemotherapy. Side effects depend primarily on the type of drug that is given and what it targets.
The commonly reported side effects include:
The commonly reported side effects include:
At CFCH, our haematologists will tailor your treatment regimen based on the latest guidance and research as well as their extensive experience. You will be monitored closely during your course of treatment for side effects, and tests are done to assess how you are responding to treatment. Our doctors and team of nurses strive to ensure that you are fully involved and informed of your treatment and that you are as comfortable as possible during your treatment period.
The information on the Centre For Clinical Haematology website is intended for educational use. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health professional.
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The CFCH team is committed to providing patient-centred care and comprehensive multidisciplinary support through every stage of your journey with us.
During your initial consultation, you'll meet our doctors who will listen to your concerns and begin your evaluation and recommend the necessary investigations required.
After diagnosis, we will plan your care, tailoring treatment options to your unique needs for the optimal outcome.
Throughout your treatment journey, we will provide a supportive environment to closely monitor your progress, ensuring your comfort and adjusting care as needed.
After treatment, we will continue to support you with a holistic approach to your recovery, to ensure that both your physical and mental wellbeing are looked after.
