Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to specifically target cancer cells while causing less harm to normal cells. Here's a simple explanation of what targeted therapy is and how it's used to treat blood cancer:

What is Targeted Therapy?

•  Targeted therapy targets specific molecules or pathways that are involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells.
• Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which kills rapidly dividing cells indiscriminately, targeted therapy aims to block the signals that cancer cells need to grow and spread.

How is it Used to Treat Blood Cancer?

•  In blood cancer, targeted therapy drugs are designed to target specific proteins or genetic mutations that are found in cancer cells.
• For example, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are targeted therapy drugs that block the activity of certain enzymes (tyrosine kinases) involved in cancer cell growth. TKIs are used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) by targeting the BCR-ABL fusion protein.
• Another example of targeted therapy in blood cancer is the use of monoclonal antibodies, which are engineered proteins that recognize and bind to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies can help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. They are used to treat lymphomas such as rituximab for B-cell lymphoma and daratumumab for multiple myeloma.
• Targeted therapy drugs may be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the blood cancer.

Targeted therapy has revolutionized the treatment of blood cancer by offering more precise and effective treatments with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. However, not all patients will respond to targeted therapy, and side effects can occur. Close monitoring and personalized treatment plans are essential for optimizing outcomes with targeted therapy.