How good is targeted therapy on HER2-positive breast cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My aunt, who is 61, has recently been diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer. Her oncologist recommended targeted therapy as part of the treatment plan. I would like to understand more about this approach, considering her health history and any potential side effects. Your guidance will help us better support her through this challenging time.

Could you provide insights into what we can expect during the targeted therapy, and are there any specific precautions or lifestyle adjustments she should make?

Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

I am glad you chose iCliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your situation and concerns.

For all malignant tumors, specific chemotherapy and radiation therapy are given to stop the further spread of cancer. In your case, as you mentioned that she is HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) positive, it means the doctor is trying to start chemo-radiation therapy, or maybe they can plan surgery to remove the tumor.

Targeted therapy is a kind of therapy in which they target the main growth tissue to destroy it and prevent further spread of the tumor. However, this should be done by the oncologist only, and there are side effects of targeted therapy, such as hair loss, weakness, diarrhea, and other symptoms, but they can be prevented with symptomatic treatment.

Depending on the condition of tumor growth, the treatment is given accordingly, so if it has spread to other parts or metastasized to the blood, then treatment should be started as soon as possible.

So, yes, you can start targeted therapy. Can you please send me the reports? I will check and let you know more specifically. If there is anything else, please let me know.

I hope this helps you.