### Targeted Therapies for Skin Cancers Targeted cancer therapies are drugs designed to target specific parts of cancer cells, such as proteins or genes, that help cancers grow and spread. These therapies can also target other types of cells that support cancer growth. For some skin cancers, targeted therapies may be more effective than other treatments. #### Types of Targeted Therapies 1. **Small Molecule Medicines**: These are small enough to enter cancer cells and destroy them. They often have names ending in "-ib," like imatinib. 2. **Monoclonal Antibodies**: These are larger molecules that attach to targets on the outside of cancer cells. They are usually administered through an IV or as a shot and often have names ending in "-mab," like bevacizumab. 3. **Hormone Therapies**: These stop the body from making hormones that some cancers need to grow. 4. **Signal Transduction Inhibitors**: These block signals that tell cancer cells to grow and divide. 5. **Gene Expression Modulators**: These change the proteins that control gene instructions in cancer cells. 6. **Apoptosis Inducers**: These cause cancer cells to go through normal cell death. 7. **Angiogenesis Inhibitors**: These block the growth of blood vessels that feed cancer cells. 8. **Immunotherapies**: These use the immune system to destroy cancer cells. #### Side Effects Targeted therapies can cause serious side effects, including diarrhea, liver problems, and changes to your skin, hair, and nails. Skin problems are particularly challenging because these therapies attack the same growth factors and blood vessels needed for healthy skin. Common skin issues include rashes, dryness, and sensitivity. Severe skin changes may require stopping the medication. Before starting treatment, switch to gentle, chemical-free soaps and shampoos. Report any skin changes to your doctor immediately to prevent infections. Targeted therapies are often used alongside other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, which can add to the side effects. Targeted therapies can be very expensive, sometimes costing tens of thousands of dollars a month. Always check with your insurance to understand what costs will be covered.