Targeted Therapy
A precision cancer treatment approach that targets specific genes, proteins or pathways involved in cancer growth.
What Is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that targets specific molecules, genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow, divide and spread.
Unlike chemotherapy, which affects many fast-growing cells, targeted therapy is designed to act on specific cancer-related targets. This is why targeted therapy is often linked with precision medicine or personalized cancer treatment.
NCHowever, targeted therapy is not suitable for every cancer patient. It depends on whether the patient’s cancer has a specific target that can be treated with available targeted drugs. NCI explains that targeted therapy works by targeting proteins that control how cancer cells grow, divide and spread.
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How Targeted Therapy Works
Targeted therapy works by interfering with the signals or processes that cancer cells need to survive and grow.
Depending on the cancer type and drug used, targeted therapy may help to:
Block cancer growth signals
Stop cancer cells from dividing
Prevent tumors from forming new blood vessels
Target specific cancer mutations
Deliver treatment directly to cancer cells
Slow down or control cancer spread
Some targeted therapies are taken as oral tablets, while others may be given through injection or IV infusion. American Cancer Society explains that some targeted drugs work by targeting specific biomarkers or substances inside the cancer cell and blocking them from working.
Biomarker Testing Before Targeted Therapy
TargBefore targeted therapy is recommended, doctors may request biomarker testing or genetic testing to check whether the cancer has a suitable target.
Depending on the cancer type and drug used, targeted therapy may help to:
EGFR mutation
ALK rearrangement
ROS1 mutation
BRAF mutation
HER2 expression
KRAS mutation
NTRK fusion
BRCA mutation
MSI-H / dMMR status
The type of test needed depends on the cancer type. For example, lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer and other cancers may require different biomarker panels.
Without the right target, targeted therapy may not be useful. That is why medical report review, pathology report and molecular testing are important before deciding treatment.
Targeted Therapy vs Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy and chemotherapy are different treatment approaches.
Targeted Therapy
· Targets specific cancer-related genes, proteins or pathways
· Often requires biomarker or genetic testing
· May be taken as tablets or IV treatment
· Side effects depend on the target and drug type
· Not suitable for every cancer patient
Chemotherapy
· Attacks fast-growing cells
· May be used without specific mutation testing
· Usually given by IV infusion or oral medication
· Side effects often affect fast-growing normal cells
· Used in many cancer treatment plans
ITargeted therapy is not always better than chemotherapy. Some patients may need targeted therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or a combination of treatments depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
Possible Benefits & Side Effects
For selected patients, targeted therapy may offer benefits such as:
More personalized treatment based on cancer biology
May target specific mutations or cancer pathways
May cause less damage to some normal cells compared with traditional chemotherapy
Can sometimes be taken as oral medication
May be used in advanced, metastatic or recurrent cancer cases
Can be combined with other cancer treatments in selected cases
However, targeted therapy can still cause side effects. These depend on the drug type and target.
Possible side effects may include:
Skin rash
Diarrhea
Tiredness
Nausea
Mouth sores
High blood pressure
Liver function changes
Bleeding or wound healing issues
Hand-foot skin reaction
Changes in hair or skin condition
American Cancer Society notes that targeted therapy side effects can be different from standard chemotherapy, and the effects depend largely on the drug type and what it targets.
Common questions about Targeted Therapy
Is targeted therapy suitable for all cancer patients?
No. Targeted therapy is only suitable when the cancer has a specific target that can be treated with an available targeted drug. The doctor will usually need pathology, imaging, biomarker testing, and treatment history before deciding.
Do I need genetic testing before targeted therapy?
TIn many cases, yes. Biomarker testing or genetic testing helps doctors identify whether the cancer has mutations or markers that may respond to targeted therapy. Without testing, it may be difficult to know whether targeted therapy is suitable.
Is targeted therapy better than chemotherapy?
Not always. Targeted therapy and chemotherapy work differently. Targeted therapy may be more suitable for patients with certain biomarkers, while chemotherapy may still be the better option for other patients. Some treatment plans may combine both.
Is targeted therapy only for advanced cancer?
Not necessarily. Targeted therapy may be used in advanced, metastatic, recurrent, or selected early-stage cancer cases depending on cancer type and treatment guideline. The timing depends on doctor assessment.
How is targeted therapy given?
Some targeted therapy drugs are taken as tablets or capsules. Others are given through IV infusion or injection. The method depends on the drug and cancer type.
What happens if targeted therapy stops working?
Some cancers may develop resistance to targeted therapy over time. If this happens, the doctor may request repeat testing, change the drug, combine treatments, or consider other options such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or clinical trials.
Can targeted therapy be combined with immunotherapy?
Yes, in selected cases. Some cancer treatment plans may combine targeted therapy with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. However, combination treatment may increase side effects, so it must be planned carefully by the oncology team.