Targeted therapy is a type of medical treatment that focuses on specific characteristics of a disease, particularly in conditions like cancer. Unlike traditional treatments that affect all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy zeroes in on particular molecules or genes that contribute to the growth and spread of tumors. This approach helps to minimize damage to healthy cells and can lead to more effective outcomes.
By using targeted therapy, doctors can personalize treatment plans for patients based on the unique features of their tumors. This method often involves the use of biologics or small molecules that interfere with specific pathways involved in disease progression, making it a promising option in modern medicine.