Targeted therapy
At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we are committed to offering you the most advanced and effective treatments for breast cancer. Targeted therapy is an innovative approach that focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth, providing a highly effective and personalised treatment option. Under the expert care of consultant oncologist Dr Sunduz Yahya, you will receive tailored treatment designed to give you the best possible outcomes.
What is targeted therapy?
Targeted therapy is a specialised form of cancer treatment that works by interfering with the specific proteins or genes involved in the growth and spread of breast cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy focuses solely on the cancer, often resulting in fewer side effects.
This approach can be especially effective for patients whose cancer exhibits certain genetic mutations or characteristics, such as PICK3A mutations, ESR1 mutations, or overactive pathways like the CDK4/6 pathway.
How targeted therapy works
Targeted therapy focuses on the molecular changes that drive breast cancer. By blocking these specific pathways, it can slow or stop cancer growth. Some of the most common types of targeted therapies include:
- PICK3A inhibitors: These drugs target mutations in the PIK3CA gene, which are often found in hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. By blocking this pathway, these inhibitors can slow tumour growth and improve outcomes.
- ESR1 inhibitors: These target mutations in the oestrogen receptor gene (ESR1), which can make hormone receptor-positive breast cancer resistant to hormonal therapies. ESR1 inhibitors restore sensitivity to hormonal treatments, helping to control the cancer more effectively.
- CDK4/6 inhibitors: These block proteins that help cancer cells grow and divide. CDK4/6 inhibitors are commonly used for hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, often in combination with hormonal therapies.
These therapies offer a targeted approach that helps minimise damage to healthy cells, reducing side effects and improving quality of life during treatment.
Who can benefit from targeted therapy?
Targeted therapy is most effective for patients whose breast cancer has specific molecular characteristics. Your treatment team will use advanced diagnostic tests, such as genetic and molecular profiling, to identify whether targeted therapy is suitable for you. This treatment is commonly recommended for:
- hormone receptor-positive breast cancers
- HER2-positive breast cancers
- cancers with specific mutations like PICK3A or ESR1
- advanced or metastatic breast cancer
If targeted therapy is an option for you, we will design a personalised treatment plan to ensure the best possible results.
What to expect during targeted therapy
At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we are here to guide and support you through every step of your treatment. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial consultation
During your first consultation, we will assess your diagnosis and explain how targeted therapy works. Your care team will discuss your treatment plan in detail and answer any questions you may have. - Treatment administration
Targeted therapies are often taken as oral medications (tablets) or given as intravenous (IV) infusions at our comfortable clinic. Your treatment schedule will depend on the specific therapy prescribed. - Ongoing monitoring and support
Throughout your treatment, we will closely monitor your progress to ensure the therapy is effective. Regular check-ups and tests will help us track your response and make adjustments if necessary.
Benefits of targeted therapy
Targeted therapy offers several advantages over traditional cancer treatments, including:
- greater precision in attacking cancer cells
- fewer side effects, as healthy cells are less affected
- improved outcomes for specific types of breast cancer
- compatibility with other treatments, such as hormonal therapy or chemotherapy
This approach allows us to provide you with a treatment plan that is both effective and tailored to your unique needs.
Managing side effects
While targeted therapies generally cause fewer side effects than traditional treatments, you may still experience some, such as:
- fatigue
- nausea or diarrhoea
- mild skin reactions
- increased risk of infection
Our team will provide support and guidance to help you manage any side effects and maintain your quality of life during treatment.
Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?
Choosing the right care team is essential for your breast cancer treatment. At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we offer:
- Access to advanced treatments: We stay at the forefront of cancer care, offering the latest targeted therapies such as PICK3A, ESR1, and CDK4/6 inhibitors.
- Comprehensive support: From diagnosis to recovery, our team is here to guide you through every stage of your treatment with compassion and care.
- Multidisciplinary approach: Your treatment plan will be developed by a team of experts, including oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, ensuring seamless, coordinated care.
Contact us
We understand that a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. At Birmingham Breast Clinic, we are here to provide you with expert care and support. If you would like to learn more about targeted therapy or arrange a consultation, please contact us.
