Targeted Therapy for Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a type of cancer that affects the liver. 

It is the fourth most common cause of cancer worldwide and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. It is estimated that in the year 2020 around 905,700 people worldwide were affected by liver cancer and according to data, it is predicted that by the year 2040 it might increase to 55%, leading to over 1.4 million cases annually.

Before delving into how targeted therapy is used in treating liver cancer, let us understand a bit about “what is targeted therapy.”. 

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy for liver cancer is an advanced treatment option where drugs or some other substances are used to target specific molecules or pathways that are involved in the growth of the cancerous cells. Unlike traditional treatment options like chemotherapy, the targeted therapy for liver cancer targets the cancer cells and avoids the healthy cells. 

In liver cancer, targeted therapies are used when traditional methods like chemotherapy or surgery are not suitable options based on your condition. This therapy can also be used in combination with other treatments, like surgery or chemotherapy, to improve the outcomes. 

How Does Targeted Therapy Work for Liver Cancer?

The targeted therapy for liver cancer works by targeting the specific molecules or pathways of certain cells. Here is the list of certain molecules/pathways for liver cancer cells to which the targeted therapy drugs target.

Growth factor receptor: The liver cancer cells do have some of the abnormal receptors that participate in uncontrolled growth. The targeted therapy drugs can target these receptors and block the block of these cells. 

Angiogenesis: Tumors need blood vessels to grow. Targeted therapies can block the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) that tumors need to thrive.

Cell Surface Proteins: Some liver cancer cells have abnormal proteins on their surface that promote cancer progression. The drugs of targeted therapy will target these proteins, hence blocking the growth of the cancerous cells. 

Types of Targeted Therapy for Liver Cancer

Here are some of the types of targeted therapy for liver cancer.

Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs): Tyrosine kinase inhibitor drugs are used to target and block the enzymes called tyrosine kinase, which control cell division and survival. For examples, Sorafenib (Nexavar) and Lenvatinib (Lenvima). 

Monoclonal Antibodies: These are lab-grown antibodies that target specific proteins or receptors on the surface of the cells. For example, ramucirumab (Cyramza) targets VEGFR-2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) and blocks the tumor to develop new blood vessels. 

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (Combination with Targeted Therapy): Some of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (like nivolumab or pembrolizumab) are also used in combination with targeted therapies. These drugs target the checkpoint proteins that are used to prevent the immune system from recognizing and attacking cancer cells.

Note: The targeted therapy drugs are given based on the patient’s severity. These drugs are only consumed when advised by your doctors. If certain drugs are showing some kind of side effect, it is recommended to consult with your doctor as early as possible. 

What are the Benefits of Targeted Therapy for Liver Cancer?

If your doctor advised you to go with targeted therapy, here are some of the benefits related to targeted therapy for liver cancer. 

• Precision: Drugs are tailored for specific genetic mutations or proteins in liver cancer cells.
• Less Toxicity: As these drugs target only cancer cells but not healthy cells. Therefore, this therapy has fewer side effects.
• Improved Outcomes: In some cases, targeted therapy can improve progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with advanced liver cancer.

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What are the Side Effects of Targeted Therapy for Liver Cancer?

While targeted therapy for liver cancer is less toxic than traditional treatments, it does have some side effects, totally depending on the severity of the patients and the type of drugs. Here are some of the common side effects: 

• Fatigue
• High blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Hand-foot skin reaction (painful redness or peeling of skin on the palms and soles)
• Liver toxicity (elevated liver enzymes)
• Gastrointestinal problems (nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores)

When Is Targeted Therapy Used for Liver Cancer?

The targeted therapy can be used in the following conditions:

• Advanced liver cancer 
• After surgery or ablation
• In addition with other treatments like immunotherapy or chemotherapy

For More Information, Read Cancer Treatment Cost in India.

Clinical Trials and Research

Targeted therapy for liver cancer is an area of active research, and new therapies are continuously being developed and tested. Clinical trials play a crucial role in discovering new targeted drugs and combinations that can improve patient outcomes.

Bottom Line

Targeted therapy for liver cancer signifies an advanced treatment option apart from the traditional ones. As mentioned in the blog, this therapy is used to target only the cancerous cells, leaving the healthy cells, thus showing fewer side effects than traditional treatments like chemotherapy. Always consult with an oncologist or a medical professional specializing in liver cancer for specific advice regarding targeted therapies and the most suitable options for individual cases.

At Medsurge India (Medical Tourism Company in India), we are committed to providing you with complete healthcare treatment options for any type of cancer condition. Our aim is to provide an expert medical team, comprehensive care, affordable treatment options, medical visa assistance, multilingual support, and a positive patient experience.