Targeted therapy with monoclonal antibodies: what to know

After entering the bloodstream, an antibody may attach to a marker on a cancer cell, block a growth message, carry an immune signal, or prevent the tumour from using a needed pathway. The exact action depends on the medicine and the cancer. A tissue or molecular test may be used to look for the relevant target.

Most monoclonal antibodies are given through a vein, with observation during and after treatment. Infusion reactions can include flushing, fever, chills, itching, dizziness, or breathing changes. Later effects vary by medicine and can involve the skin, bowel, lungs, heart, kidneys, or liver.

Tell the team about allergies, previous infusion reactions, infections, heart or lung conditions, and all medicines or supplements. Report symptoms during the infusion immediately, even if they seem mild. Bring a list of questions and arrange support for the journey home if you feel tired afterward.

Keep appointments for blood tests and reviews. Ask whether you need to avoid particular medicines or vaccines, how to manage fever, and whom to contact outside clinic hours.

Tell the infusion team straight away about chest tightness, wheezing, flushing, shaking chills, dizziness, or itching during treatment. After leaving, contact your cancer team promptly for fever, new rash, diarrhoea, worsening cough, breathlessness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or reduced urine. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, or swelling of the face or throat.

What target does this antibody recognise? Is testing needed before treatment? How long will each infusion and observation period take? Which reaction symptoms should I report immediately? What monitoring will continue between infusions?