Targeted Therapy for Cancer
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that focuses on specific genes, proteins, or other molecular features that help cancer cells grow, spread, and survive. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, targeted therapies are designed to identify and attack specific characteristics of cancer cells. This precision-based approach can slow or stop cancer growth while reducing damage to healthy cells.
Targeted therapy is used to treat many types of cancer, including lung, breast, colorectal, kidney, and skin cancers, as well as certain leukemias and other blood cancers. These treatments are most effective when a tumor contains specific biomarkers or genetic changes that can be targeted with medication. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, targeted therapy may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery, or radiation therapy.
Targeted therapy has transformed cancer care by making treatment more personalized and tailored to the unique biology of each patient's cancer. For many people, these therapies offer an effective way to control the disease, improve outcomes, and maintain quality of life while continuing many of their normal daily activities.
What is targeted therapy?
Cancer cells often contain genetic changes or produce abnormal proteins that allow them to grow, divide, and spread. Targeted therapies are designed to identify and interfere with these specific cancer-driving mechanisms. Before targeted therapy is recommended, your physician may order biomarker or molecular testing to determine whether your cancer has characteristics that can be targeted with available medications.
Targeted therapy may work by:
- Blocking signals that tell cancer cells to grow
- Preventing tumors from forming new blood vessels
- Triggering cancer cell death
- Helping the immune system identify cancer cells
- Delivering cancer-fighting substances directly to cancer cells
Targeted therapies may be given as oral medications, intravenous (IV) infusions, injections, or other specialized treatments depending on the type of cancer and the target being treated.
Why is targeted therapy to treat cancer effective?
Targeted therapy is effective because it focuses on specific characteristics of cancer cells rather than broadly targeting all rapidly dividing cells. This precision allows treatment to attack cancer more directly and, in many cases, improve outcomes while reducing certain side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy.
When appropriate biomarkers are present, targeted therapy may:
- Slow or stop cancer growth
- Shrink tumors
- Help prevent cancer from spreading
- Improve the effectiveness of other cancer treatments
- Control cancer for extended periods of time
- Improve quality of life for many patients
Because targeted therapies only work when the appropriate target is present, biomarker testing is often an important step in treatment planning. Your oncology team will determine whether targeted therapy is an option based on the unique biology of your cancer.
Common Side Effects of Targeted Therapy
Side effects vary depending on the specific targeted therapy being used and the part of the body affected by treatment. While targeted therapies may spare many healthy cells, they can still cause side effects that require monitoring and management.
Common side effects may include:
- Skin rash or dry skin
- Changes to hair, nails, or skin color
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Mouth sores
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Liver function changes
- Swelling in the hands or feet
Many side effects can be prevented, minimized, or effectively managed when reported early. Your Virginia Cancer Specialists care team will monitor you closely throughout treatment and provide guidance on managing symptoms.
How Best to Prepare for Targeted Therapy
The best way to prepare for targeted therapy is to understand your treatment plan and maintain open communication with your Virginia Cancer Specialists care team. Before treatment begins, ask about the goals of therapy, potential side effects, recommended monitoring, and any lifestyle considerations that may apply to your specific medication.
During treatment, consider the following:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Attend all follow-up appointments and recommended laboratory testing.
- Inform your care team about all prescription medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you use.
- Report new symptoms or side effects promptly.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.
- Follow any skin care recommendations provided by your healthcare team.
- Keep a record of symptoms or concerns to discuss during appointments.
Your care team may perform regular blood tests, imaging studies, and physical examinations to monitor your response to treatment and ensure any side effects are addressed quickly.
Related Treatment Areas & Resources
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Hormone Therapy
Radiation Therapy
Ready to Make an Appointment?
If you have questions about whether this treatment or service may be right for you, make an appointment with the Virginia Cancer Specialists team.