Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer. This type of cancer affects the colon or rectum (part of the large intestine). The associated signs and symptoms are blood in the stool, abdominal pain, change in bowel movement, and unwanted weight loss. 

There are several treatment options available to treat this cancer, with one of the most advanced methods being targeted therapy for colorectal cancer.

Let’s explore colorectal cancer, its working, and what are the challenges and future aspects related to targeted therapy 

Understanding about Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy for colorectal cancer is an advanced method that targets the specific molecules, proteins, or genes of the cancer cells, leaving the healthy cells. Due to this ability, there are fewer side effects as compared to traditional treatment methods. 

Working of Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer

In the targeted therapy, they target some of the specific molecules and pathways that are critical for the growth and survival of the cancer cells. 

Here’s how targeted therapy fights against colorectal cancer. 

• Blocking Cancer Cell Growth Signals: blocking abnormal signals that promote their growth and spread for the cancer cells. 
• Cutting Off Blood Supply to Tumors: Cancer cells require the formation of new blood vessels to provide nutrients and oxygen supply. Targeted therapy prevents the formation of blood vessels, hence halting the growth and survival of the cancer cells. 
• Repairing or Blocking Mutated Genes: Targets to repair the mutated gene or blocks the mutated ones from the cancer cells. 
• Boosting Immune Response: Boost your immune system to recognize and destroy the cancer cells. 

Types of Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer

Here are different types of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer.

Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Proteins like vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF) are important for the formation of the new blood vessel. Drugs like Bevacizumab (Avastin) and Ramucirumab (Cyramza) are used to block the formation of blood vessels. 

EGFR Inhibitors: Drugs like Cetuximab (Erbitux) and Panitumumab (Vectibix) are used to target the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors (EGFR), which help the growth of the cancer cells. 

Tumor-Agnostic Fusion: This focuses on the specific genetic changes called NTRK fusion. This genetic change is rare and only happens in certain cases, like colorectal cancer. 

Gene Mutation:  A mutation in the BRAF gene, which drives cancer growth. BRAF inhibitors target and block this mutated gene to slow down or stop cancer progression.

Pathways Inhibitors: Target a specific pathway involved in the growth of cancer cells. By blocking this pathway, they can disrupt cancer cell proliferation and survival.

Side Effects Related to Targeted Therapy 

While targeted therapy for colorectal cancer is an advanced method, it still has some side effects. 

• Headache 
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Bleeding
• Taste changes
• Diarrhea
• Fever

The given side effects totally depend on the patient’s condition and the type of drugs consumed. Do consult with your doctor if you have any of the symptoms of side effects. 

Challenges Related to Targeted Therapy

In addition to side effects, there are also some of the challenges related to targeted therapy that you may consider:

• Expensive treatment options
• Limited Effectiveness for All Cancers
• Complexity in Identifying Specific Targets
• Risk of Developing Resistance

Helpful:- Targeted Therapy Cost in India

The Future of Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer

There is various research still going on to discover new targeted therapy for colorectal cancer. With ongoing advancements, there is hope for even more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Clinical trials are exploring new drug combinations and testing drugs that target previously unexplored pathways.

Key Takeaways

Targeted therapy for colorectal cancer is a revolutionary therapy that uses advanced methods to target only the cancer cells. This method is beneficial for advanced and metastatic colorectal cancers. Unlike other cancer treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, this method does have fewer side effects. Studies are still going on to make this method available for all types of cancers. 

At Medsurge India, we offer complete guidance for different types of medical treatments, whether it is colorectal cancer or any other types of cancer,  in India. We partnered with the best cancer hospitals in India. We provide comprehensive care, an expert medical team, multilinguistic assistance, medical visa assistance, and accommodation facilities in India.

Also, the targeted therapy cost in India is reasonably more affordable compared to other western countries. Whether you’re seeking advanced cancer care or exploring affordable treatment options, we are here to make your healthcare journey in India as seamless and effective as possible.

For more information, feel free to send us your queries, and we’ll be happy to assist you further.