Individuals who are diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer that has metastasized typically undergo targeted therapy. This approach employs medications designed to focus on specific molecules, such as proteins, found on or within cancer cells. These molecules play a crucial role in transmitting signals that prompt cell growth or division. By concentrating on these targets, the medications inhibit the proliferation and dissemination of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. This form of treatment is also referred to as molecular targeted therapy.

Targeted therapy may be utilized to:

• eliminate or manage kidney cancer cells
• alleviate pain or address the symptoms associated with advanced kidney cancer (known as palliative therapy)

Your healthcare team will assess your requirements to determine the appropriate medications, dosages, and treatment schedules for targeted therapy. Additional treatments may also be incorporated into your care plan.

How Targeted Therapy Work in Kidney Cancer? 

Targeted therapy employs medications designed to target specific genes, molecules, or proteins that contribute to the growth of kidney tumors. This approach makes it more challenging for the tumor to proliferate, potentially leading to a reduction or complete elimination of the cancer.

While both chemotherapy and targeted therapy involve the use of medications to combat cancer, targeted therapy offers a more precise treatment option. In contrast to chemotherapy, which indiscriminately destroys both cancerous and healthy cells, targeted therapy focuses on identifying and attacking cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. This specificity can lead to decreased discomfort and fewer side effects for patients. 

To determine the most appropriate medication for your treatment, your healthcare team will first analyze the cancer’s biomarkers. This process allows for a more personalized and effective medical approach. Typically, only one medication is administered at a time; however, if it proves ineffective, your healthcare team may consider switching to a different option. Additionally, some cancer types may develop resistance to specific drugs.

The following are the most frequently utilized types of targeted therapy drugs for kidney cancer. These treatments are primarily intended for patients with advanced cancer and may also be used as adjuvant therapy following surgery to reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence.

• Anti-angiogenesis therapy is used to stop the growth of blood vessels in the body known as angiogenesis.
• mTOR inhibitors work to block proteins such as mTOR (i.e. help cancer cells grow).

Types of Targeted Therapy Drugs That are commonly Used in Kidney Cancer? 

Below are some of the most common types of targeted drugs that are used in the treatment of kidney cancer.

• Sunitinib
• Pazopanib
• Cabozantinib
• Sorafenib
• Everolimus
• Temsirolimus

Benefits of Targeted Therapy in Kidney Cancer

Targeted therapy offers significant advantages for individuals with kidney cancer, as it can:

Minimize damage to healthy cells  

Targeted therapy agents focus on specific molecules present on cancer cells, effectively inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer while preserving normal cells.

Diminish discomfort and adverse effects  

Due to its specificity, targeted therapy tends to produce fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Be utilized alongside immunotherapy  

Studies indicate that the combination of targeted therapy and immunotherapy may enhance response rates in certain patients.

Serve as adjuvant therapy  

Targeted therapy can be administered post-surgery to lower the risk of cancer recurrence.

This form of treatment is frequently employed as the initial approach for advanced kidney cancer and is typically taken daily in tablet form for extended periods, potentially lasting months or years. Read, Kidney treatment cost in India.

Your medical oncologist can provide guidance on the most suitable drug combinations tailored to your circumstances.

Challenges and Limitations of Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy presents various challenges and limitations, which include:

Resistance  

Cancer cells may develop resistance to targeted therapies by altering the target or discovering alternative growth mechanisms.

Side effects  

The side effects associated with these therapies can differ depending on the specific drug and may encompass skin issues, fatigue, organ damage, and elevated blood pressure, among others.

Drug development  

The process of developing drugs for certain targets can be complicated due to the structural or functional characteristics of the target within the cell.

Cost  

As targeted therapies are relatively new, they tend to be more costly compared to traditional cancer treatments. Read about targeted therapy cost in India.

Identifying a molecular target  

Determining the appropriate molecular target necessary for initiating treatment can pose significant challenges.

Regulatory and industry barriers  

There are various hurdles concerning the commercialization and regulatory approval of targeted therapies.

Despite these challenges, targeted therapy remains a promising approach that aims to inhibit the growth and angiogenesis of cancer cells. It may yield optimal results when combined with other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation.