Targeted cancer therapy

About the method

Among the main treating methods in the 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 which in turn minimizes the risk of side effects.

The usage of targeted therapy as an element of integrative oncology in the 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 3-6 courses of 21 days each. During the course the patient should keep to 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 for the use of targeted cancer therapy may include:

• 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 metastases or recurrence
• Rapid reproduction of cancel cells affecting healthy organs
• Accelerated speed of tumour growth

Cancer center

There are different types and subgroups of targeted cancer therapy. Each type of medications in the doctor’s arsenal 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 prescribed:

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

Medications used in targeted cancer therapy

The main advantages of this method are:

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

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

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

In targeted cancer therapy, medications penetrate a specific organ and have a therapeutic effect on it. Drugs in targeted usage have a narrow focus.

Thus, a drug intended to fight lung cancer cannot be used to treat breast cancer.

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 the Onco.Rehab clinic are chosen individually, depending on the patient’s diagnosis, and only after the consultation.