Targeted therapy and immunotherapy

Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are two emerging treatment modalities in the field of uro-oncology, which involves the use of specialized medications that specifically target cancer cells or boost the immune system to fight against cancer. These therapies offer promising results in the management of certain urological cancers, such as kidney cancer and bladder cancer. 

Targeted Therapy: 

Targeted therapy involves the use of medications that specifically target cancer cells by blocking the signals that promote their growth and spread. These medications work by inhibiting specific proteins or pathways that are overexpressed or mutated in cancer cells, while sparing normal healthy cells. Targeted therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatment modalities, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. 

Indications for Targeted Therapy in Urological Cancer: 

• Kidney Cancer: Targeted therapy has revolutionized the treatment of advanced or metastatic kidney cancer. Medications such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as sunitinib, pazopanib, and axitinib, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, are commonly used in the treatment of advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). 
• Bladder Cancer: Targeted therapy can also be used in the management of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer. Medications such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, including atezolizumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, are approved for the treatment of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer that has progressed despite chemotherapy. 

Immunotherapy: 

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy works by boosting the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells, thus enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms against cancer. 

Indications for Immunotherapy in Urological Cancer: 

• Kidney Cancer: Immunotherapy, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, have shown significant efficacy in the treatment of advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) that has progressed despite targeted therapy or other treatments. 
• Bladder Cancer: Immune checkpoint inhibitors, including pembrolizumab and atezolizumab, have been approved for the treatment of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer that has progressed despite chemotherapy. 

Recovery after Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: 

The recovery after targeted therapy and immunotherapy depends on the specific treatment and the patient's overall health. These therapies are generally well-tolerated, but they may be associated with side effects, including fatigue, diarrhea, skin rash, nausea, and immune-related adverse events. Regular monitoring of treatment response, management of side effects, and close follow-up with the healthcare team are important aspects of the recovery process. 

The Department of Uro-Oncology at Sterling Hospitals provides advanced targeted therapy and immunotherapy services for urological cancers, including kidney cancer and bladder cancer. The experienced oncologists and healthcare professionals work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans, monitor treatment response, manage side effects, and provide comprehensive care throughout the treatment journey. State-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge treatment options are available to ensure the best possible outcomes for uro-oncology patients.