Targeted cancer therapy

About the method

Among the main treating methods in Onco.Rehab clinic, targeted cancer therapy holds a special place. The name of the method itself contains the word “target” that reflects its point.

Targeted therapy of cancer is a modern method, which is used for fighting against cancer cells often until their total disappearance. At the same time healthy cells do not suffer, it helps minimize the risk of side effects.

The usage of targeted therapy as an element of integrative oncology in Onco.Rehab clinic shows positive results, enhances patients’ condition and prolongs their lives.

The method can be used as a separate procedure, but it is especially effective in the complex exposure on damaged cells.

Targeted therapy comprises of 3-6 courses, 21 days each. During the course the patient should keep a diet, as it increases positive predictions in controlling the growth of tumour cells.

Indications for use

The choice of method of cancer treatment depends on a number of factors. Among the indications of targeted cancer therapy usage are:

• Patient’s serious condition when surgery and chemotherapy are impossible, as it can worsen the situation
• Applying of strong medications, which can negatively affect healthy tissues
• High risk of metastasis or recurrence
• Rapid reproduction of cancel cells influencing healthy organs
• Accelerated speed of tumour growth

Cancer center

There are different types and subgroups of targeted cancer therapy. Every type of medicines in the doctor’s stockpile is aimed at performing specific actions. By means of the medicines, molecules of toxic substance reach pathogenic cells and destroy them.

Types of cancer diseases, when targeted therapy is possible:

• breast cancer
• cancer of male and female reproductive organs
• melanoma
• skin cancer
• kidney cancer
• lung cancer etc.

Medications used in targeted cancer therapy

Main advantages of this method are:

• minimal exposure on the patient’s body
• selective exposure of the medicine on the targeted cells
• high uniqueness

According to the action mechanism of drugs used in targeted cancer therapy, one can divide them in several groups:

The first group – monoclonal antibodies. These medicines work at the level of vascular growth and cell receptors. These synthetic proteins contain antibodies to the selected targets in the tumour genes. Trastuzumab, Bevacizumab, Panitumumab and other medications, ending in “-mab”, are in this group.

The second group – tyrosine kinase inhibitors. They are intracellular proteins that are to connect the cell with cellular structures and its core. Gefitinib, Erlotinib and other medications, ending in “–ib”, are in this group.

The third group – antitumour immunosuppressants. Their goal is to block signals to cell division and growth. Everolimus and other medications, ending in “–us”, are in this group.

In targeted therapy, medicines, getting into the specific organ, have a therapeutic effect on it. Drugs in targeted usage are highly specialized.

So, the medicine against lung cancer cannot be used against breast cancer, as there will be no results, meanwhile side effects can appear.

Bowel or rectal cancers are successfully treated with targeted medicines only or as a part of complex therapy. In the case of sarcoma the drugs are aimed at damaging the biological structure of the tumour.

The treating scheme and the amount of procedures in Onco.Rehab clinic are chosen individually, depending on the patient’s diagnosis, and only after the consultation.