Trastuzumab

Definition

Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody used primarily in the treatment of breast cancer that overexpresses the HER2 protein. By binding to the HER2 receptor, trastuzumab inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a targeted therapy with significant efficacy in HER2-positive breast cancer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trastuzumab was first approved by the FDA in 1998 for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer, marking a significant advancement in targeted therapy.
2. It can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously, allowing for flexible treatment options depending on patient needs.
3. Trastuzumab is often used in combination with chemotherapy to enhance its anticancer effects and improve patient prognosis.
4. One common side effect of trastuzumab is cardiotoxicity, which requires monitoring of heart function during treatment.
5. The drug has been shown to improve overall survival rates and decrease the risk of recurrence in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer.

Review Questions

• How does trastuzumab specifically target HER2-positive breast cancer cells?
  • Trastuzumab targets HER2-positive breast cancer cells by binding to the HER2 receptor on their surface. This binding inhibits the proliferation of these cancer cells by blocking the receptor's signaling pathways that promote growth. Additionally, trastuzumab facilitates immune-mediated destruction of these cells, enhancing its therapeutic effect against tumors that overexpress HER2.
• Discuss the role of trastuzumab in combination therapies for breast cancer treatment and its impact on patient outcomes.
  • Trastuzumab plays a crucial role in combination therapies for breast cancer by enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy agents. When used alongside traditional chemotherapy drugs, it not only helps in targeting HER2-positive cells but also increases the overall response rate and survival outcomes for patients. Studies have demonstrated that combining trastuzumab with chemotherapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence and improves progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy alone.
• Evaluate the implications of trastuzumab's side effects on treatment protocols and patient management strategies.
  • The cardiotoxicity associated with trastuzumab necessitates careful monitoring of heart function throughout treatment, influencing how healthcare providers develop management strategies. This may include baseline cardiac assessments and regular follow-up evaluations to mitigate risks. Patients may also need counseling regarding potential side effects, ensuring they are informed about symptoms indicating cardiac issues. Thus, effective management protocols are essential to balance the benefits of trastuzumab's targeted therapy with its side effects.

Related terms

HER2: A protein that, when overexpressed, is associated with aggressive forms of breast cancer and serves as a target for therapies like trastuzumab.

Monoclonal Antibody: An antibody produced from a single clone of immune cells, designed to bind to specific antigens and used in targeted therapies for various diseases, including cancer.

Chemotherapy: A treatment using drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells, often used alongside targeted therapies such as trastuzumab for improved outcomes.