Targeted therapy

About this approach

Targeted therapies act on particular proteins or biological processes involved in cancer growth. Some are tablets; others are infused medicines. A tumor's biomarkers can help identify whether a specific treatment may be useful, although a test does not always find a treatment option. The decision depends on the cancer, treatment history, test results, and evidence for the medicine. Targeted treatment can have substantial side effects and requires ongoing oncology supervision.

Where it fits: Established treatment for selected cancers and biomarkers

Where this treatment is used

Biomarker testing looks for characteristics that may guide treatment, including certain gene changes or proteins. For some cancers, testing is routine; in other situations its value depends on the clinical circumstances. A result may point to an approved therapy or a clinical trial, but it can also identify a change with no known treatment implication. Finding a target does not guarantee response, and tumors can develop resistance. Your team should interpret the result together with the diagnosis and available clinical evidence.

Procedure and practical considerations

Targeted therapies can cause diarrhea, liver problems, skin changes, fatigue, high blood pressure, and problems with clotting or wound healing, depending on the medicine. Serious complications are possible. Monitoring and prevention plans should be specific to the drug rather than to the broad treatment category.

Cancer guides that discuss this treatment

These cancer-type guides include this treatment among their connected approaches. Open a guide to see the related terminology, treatments, and clinic profiles.

Clinics reporting this approach

These clinic profiles mention this approach in their published materials. Open a profile to compare locations, services, practical details, and ways to get started.