Answer:

Esophageal cancer is characterized by the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells in the esophagus. The two common forms are squamous cell carcinoma, which typically occurs in the upper and middle sections of the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma, usually found in the lower section. Less common types include: sarcoma, lymphoma, small cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Targeted therapy uses drugs with a specific mechanism to identify and destroy cancer cells, causing minimal to no harm to healthy cells.

Cancer cells exhibit specific gene changes that distinguish them from normal cells. Some cancers possess particular proteins or enzymes responsible for signaling cancer cells to grow and replicate. Targeted drugs function by interrupting these messages sent by these proteins or enzymes to the cancer cells, thereby destroying the cells and preventing disease progression.

Doctor Sy advises a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctors prescribe targeted drugs for late-stage cancer that cannot be surgically removed, for recurrent cancer after initial treatment, and in cases exhibiting HER2 protein overexpression. These drugs specifically target the HER2 protein to prevent cancer cells from multiplying.

The choice of treatment method depends on the disease stage, cancer type, and the patient's overall health. You should undergo an examination to determine your specific condition, which will guide the appropriate treatment recommendation. Doctors often combine targeted therapy with chemotherapy to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce potential side effects.

Side effects also vary depending on the type of targeted drug used. Patients may experience: fever, chills, cough, headache, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, and hair loss. Should any unusual signs appear during treatment, patients or their families should promptly inform the treating doctor for timely diagnosis and appropriate care and treatment planning.

Master, Doctor Nguyen Tien Sy

Department of Medical Oncology

Oncology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM