Antibody targeted therapy

It is a broad treatment group rather than a single medicine. The target, method of action, schedule and possible reactions differ from one antibody to another.

Some antibodies attach to a receptor that helps cancer cells grow and interrupt its signal. Others flag marked cells for immune attack, interfere with a supporting blood supply, or transport a drug or radioactive component. This selectivity can narrow where treatment acts, but it does not remove the possibility of harm to healthy tissue.

Testing blood, bone marrow or tumour tissue may help establish whether the relevant marker is present. Results are interpreted alongside the diagnosis, earlier treatments, other illnesses and the goal of care. Losing or changing a target can also affect later treatment decisions.

Before an infusion or injection, report infections, allergies, past infusion reactions and every medicine or supplement you use. The team may check blood counts and organ function, and may give medicines intended to reduce a reaction. Stay for the recommended observation period even if you initially feel well.

Record the timing of symptoms in relation to each dose. Do not stop, delay or restart an antibody medicine independently; the oncology service may adjust the schedule, provide supportive treatment or investigate another cause.

Use the oncology team's urgent line for fever, shaking chills, worsening rash, ongoing diarrhoea, unusual bruising, new swelling, marked fatigue, or a cough or breathlessness that is new or getting worse. Medicine-specific instructions from your treatment unit take priority.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, throat or facial swelling, chest pressure, fainting, a seizure, or sudden confusion. These symptoms can require immediate assessment whether or not they occur on an infusion day.

Useful questions include the name of the target, what the test result means, how the antibody is given, which checks are planned, and whether other cancer treatments will be used at the same time. Confirm who to call overnight and what should trigger an emergency visit.