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Treatment and the treatment process

The logic of targeted therapy

Targeted therapy starts with a question: what drives this leukaemia cell, and how can it be switched off?

Last updated: ~1 min read
The cell’s wiring — The logic of targeted therapy
Figure 1.The cell’s wiring — The logic of targeted therapy

01Short answer

Leukaemia cells depend on certain signals or proteins to survive and divide. Block that dependency and the cell weakens, while healthy cells are less affected. But the cell can find a detour (resistance), so sometimes two medicines are combined or the medicine is changed.

02Simple explanation

Topic. the logic of targeted therapy.

Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.

Write down. Your questions.

Overview. The article “Targeted therapy”.

03Scientific explanation

Oncogene addiction: the cell relies heavily on one driver gene.

Resistance: new mutations or back-up signalling routes.

04What happens in the body?

The logic of targeted therapy

Leukaemia cells depend on certain signals or proteins to survive and divide. Block that dependency and the cell weakens, while healthy cells are less affected. But the cell can find a detour (resistance), so sometimes two medicines are combined or the medicine is changed.

In more detail

Oncogene addiction: the cell relies heavily on one driver gene. Resistance: new mutations or back-up signalling routes.

Only the target is lit.
Figure 2.Only the target is lit.

The overview

This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Targeted therapy”.

A detour closed — The logic of targeted therapy
Figure 3.A detour closed — The logic of targeted therapy

05The logic of targeted therapy: the steps

Four steps.

Driver — Found.1DriverFound.
Block — A medicine.2BlockA medicine.
Response — Tests.3ResponseTests.
Resistance — Change if needed.4ResistanceChange if needed.

06The logic

StepQuestionHow it is answered
DriverWhat is in charge?Genetic tests
BlockHow to switch it off?Targeted medicine
CheckIs it working?PCR, MRD, blood counts

07Key terms

Driver mutation
A change that pushes the leukaemia forward.
Resistance
A medicine losing its effect.

08Key points

  • Everyone’s plan is individual.
  • Write down and bring your questions.
  • Report new symptoms early.
  • Do not change medicines yourself.
  • For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
  • Overview: “Targeted therapy”.

09Frequently asked questions

Why might a medicine stop working?

The cell can find a new route; your doctor then chooses another option.

Is this the same for everyone?

No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.

Where is the overview?

In the article “Targeted therapy”.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Why might a medicine stop working?

  2. Is this the same for everyone?

  3. Where is the overview?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Targeted Therapy to Treat Cancer
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Biomarker Testing / Precision Medicine
  3. MedlinePlus. Leukemia
  4. MedlinePlus. Herbal Medicine
  5. MedlinePlus. Dietary Supplements
  6. MedlinePlus. Heart Failure
  7. MedlinePlus. High Blood Pressure
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Support for Caregivers of Cancer Patients
  9. American Cancer Society. Caregivers and Family
  10. MedlinePlus. Hepatitis
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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