Targeted Therapy For Pancreatic Cancer
Overview on Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy represents a form of cancer treatment that specifically targets distinct characteristics of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. These therapies inhibit the biological processes that transform normal cells into cancerous ones, thereby preventing the proliferation of cancer cells.
In the case of pancreatic cancer, physicians may employ targeted therapies tailored to the individual biological makeup of the patient. Typically, targeted therapies spare healthy cells, resulting in fewer side effects than conventional treatments.
The side effects associated with targeted therapies can vary depending on the specific treatment administered, and each patient may respond differently to the therapy.
It is advisable to discuss any treatment-related side effects or concerns with the healthcare team, as supportive care may assist.
Read, Targeted Therapy Cost in India.
How Targeted Therapy Work in Treating Pancreatic Cancer?
Targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer operates by pinpointing and eliminating cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. These therapies are specifically designed to focus on particular molecules, proteins, receptors, or genes that are distinctive to cancer cells or their adjacent environment. This may involve:
- Proteins that are either mutated or excessively present in cancer cells
- Proteins found in cancer cells that are absent in normal cells
- Genetic alterations (DNA changes) that do not occur in normal cells.
Targeted therapies can inhibit mechanisms that lead to the transformation of normal cells into cancerous ones, thereby preventing the proliferation of cancer cells. Generally, these therapies are less detrimental to healthy cells compared to other treatment modalities and tend to result in fewer side effects. Nonetheless, the side effects can differ from one treatment to another, and individual patient responses may vary.
What are The Different Types of Targeted Therapy Available for Pancreatic Cancer?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several targeted therapies for specific subsets of pancreatic cancer patients, including:
- Enhertu® (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki)
- Lynparza® (olaparib)
- Vitrakvi® (larotrectinib)
- Afinitor® (everolimus) for neuroendocrine tumors
- Sutent® (sunitinib) for neuroendocrine tumors
- Rozlytrek® (entrectinib)
- Tafinlar® + Mekinist® (dabrafenib + trametinib)
- Tarceva® (erlotinib)
For many of these therapies, it is necessary for the patients to undergo testing to determine the presence of specific mutations that these treatments target. This testing encompasses:
- Genetic testing for inherited mutations: blood or saliva analysis to identify mutations the patient inherited from a parent.
- Biomarker testing: examination of tumor tissue to detect mutations present within the tumor.
Success Rate of Targeted Therapy For Cancer
According to data targeted therapy demonstrates a success rate of up to 80% in the treatment of cancer, significantly surpassing the approximately 30% success rate associated with chemotherapy. This approach is characterized by its precision, as it specifically targets cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
Benefits of Targeted Therapy in Treating Pancreatic Cancer?
Targeted therapy represents a specialized approach to cancer treatment that offers several advantages for individuals with pancreatic cancer.
Precision: This therapy is designed to specifically attack and eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.
Reduced side effects: Compared to conventional treatments, targeted therapy typically results in fewer adverse effects, as it primarily focuses on cancerous cells without damaging normal cells.
Efficacy: Research indicates that targeted therapy can achieve positive outcomes in as many as 80% of patients.
Tailored approach: Physicians can select targeted therapies that align with the distinct biological characteristics of each patient.
This treatment option may be considered when other therapeutic interventions have proven ineffective.
Related, Pancreatic cancer treatment cost in India.
Side Effects of Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer may lead to a range of side effects, which include:
Dermatological issues
Patients may experience a rash resembling acne, dry skin, or fissures on the hands and feet. Additionally, the skin may become highly sensitive to sunlight.
Changes in hair and nails
Individuals might encounter hair loss or baldness, unusual hair coloration, or the development of swollen, painful lesions on the nails.
Exhaustion
Persistent fatigue is common. To alleviate this, individuals are encouraged to take regular naps and extend their sleep duration. Engaging in moderate physical activity, such as leisurely walks, may also be beneficial.
Additional side effects
Other potential side effects include diarrhea, constipation, oral sores, nausea and vomiting, elevated blood pressure, and complications related to blood clotting and wound healing.
The side effects caused by targeted therapy in patients can differ based on the specific medication administered. For instance, Sutent may commonly cause reduced blood cell counts, gastrointestinal discomfort, and congestive heart failure, while Afinitor may lead to decreased blood cell counts, elevated blood sugar levels, and pneumonitis (inflammation of lung tissue).
