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 aims to attack only the cancer cells by identifying unique markers or mutations. This approach can lead to more effective treatment with fewer side effects.
In targeted therapy, doctors often use biomarkers to determine the best treatment for a patient. For example, certain drugs may be designed to block signals that help tumors grow or to deliver toxins directly to cancer cells. This personalized approach helps improve outcomes and enhances the quality of life for patients.