targeted therapy
Cancer treatment that targets specific molecular pathways or proteins involved in tumor growth.
Full Definition
Targeted therapy represents a precision medicine approach to cancer treatment that specifically inhibits molecules, pathways, or cellular processes critical for tumor survival and proliferation. Unlike traditional chemotherapy that broadly affects rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapies are designed to interfere with specific genetic alterations or protein expressions unique to cancer cells. Examples include tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and immunomodulatory drugs. The selection of targeted therapy requires molecular profiling of the tumor to identify actionable mutations or biomarkers.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the target molecule or pathway when possible.
In Context
- "Molecular testing revealed an EGFR mutation making the patient eligible for targeted therapy." — Treatment planning note
- "The targeted therapy demonstrated excellent response with minimal toxicity compared to conventional chemotherapy." — Follow-up assessment