Our targeted therapy program focuses on precision medicine approaches, addressing specific genetic alterations in cancer cells. Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to specifically target molecules (e.g., proteins or genes) involved in the growth, progression, and survival of cancer cells.

Mechanism:

• Interferes with specific pathways or processes in cancer cells, such as signaling pathways or angiogenesis.

• Targets features unique to cancer cells, sparing most normal cells.

Examples:

• HER2 Inhibitors: Trastuzumab (Herceptin) for HER2-positive breast cancer.

• EGFR Inhibitors: Erlotinib for EGFR-mutated lung cancer.

• VEGF Inhibitors: Bevacizumab (Avastin) to block blood vessel growth in tumors.

Treatment Delivery:

• Available in both oral and injectable forms
• Customized based on genetic testing results
• Regular monitoring and adjustment protocols

Applications:

Effective for multiple cancer types including:

• Lung cancer
• Breast cancer
• Stomach cancer
• Colorectal cancer

Advantages:

• More tolerable side effect profile
• Reduced hospital visits with oral formulations
• Improved treatment compliance
• Enhanced quality of life during treatment

5.6 Theranostics Program

Apollo Cancer Centres' Theranostics program combines diagnostic precision with therapeutic effectiveness using radioactive isotopes. Theranostics is a cutting-edge approach in personalized medicine that combines therapy and diagnostics to deliver highly targeted treatment for diseases, particularly cancer. The term is a blend of “therapeutics” and “diagnostics,” emphasizing its dual purpose: diagnosing the disease and treating it simultaneously or in a closely integrated manner.

How Theranostics Works

• Specific biomarkers or receptors present on disease cells are identified (e.g., proteins or genetic markers)

• A diagnostic agent, typically a radiopharmaceutical or a molecular probe, binds to the disease-specific target, allowing imaging via techniques such as PET or SPECT scans.

• A therapeutic agent, often linked to the same targeting molecule as the diagnostic agent, delivers localized treatment to the disease site.

• Imaging can also monitor treatment response, enabling adjustments to therapy if needed.

• Used in cancers like prostate and breast cancers 

Our medical oncology team employs a comprehensive approach to determine the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments for each patient, considering:

• Cancer type and stage
• Genetic profile
• Previous treatment history
• Overall health status
• Quality of life goals