Understanding, Recognizing, and Managing Toxicities of Targeted Anticancer Therapies

The document discussed the toxicities associated with targeted anticancer therapies, which were initially expected to be less toxic than traditional chemotherapy but exhibited similar frequency and severity of toxicities. These therapies caused different toxic effects, such as vascular, dermatologic, endocrine, coagulation, immunologic, ocular, and pulmonary toxicities, replacing traditional chemotherapy toxicities like alopecia and nausea. The document emphasized the importance of recognizing, preventing, and managing these toxicities through proactive and tailored approaches, including baseline and periodic evaluations, supportive measures, dose adjustments, and collaboration with specialists. Specific guidelines were provided for managing adverse effects like noninfectious pneumonitis, hypertension, mucositis, and diarrhea, with recommendations for dose adjustments, corticosteroid use, and treatment resumption protocols. The document highlighted the need for individualized patient management to mitigate side effects while ensuring effective cancer treatment.