TriangleFOR PATIENTS · SOURCE READING
Targeted therapy
Source: Kaposi Sarcoma Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version, National Cancer Institute.
Source updated: May 17, 2023 · Captured 2026-09-09.
Selected source text with whitespace normalised. This Triangle page is not an NCI PDQ summary. Independent clinical review is pending.
Context: Treatment Option Overview / New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials.
Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells. Monoclonal antibody therapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are types of targeted therapy being studied in the treatment of Kaposi sarcoma.
Source links and citations
Monoclonal antibodies are immune system proteins made in the laboratory to treat many diseases, including cancer. As a cancer treatment, these antibodies can attach to a specific target on cancer cells or other cells that may help cancer cells grow. The antibodies are able to then kill the cancer cells, block their growth, or keep them from spreading. Monoclonal antibodies are given by infusion. They may be used alone or to carry drugs, toxins, or radioactive material directly to cancer cells. Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody that may be used to treat Kaposi sarcoma.
Source links and citations
TKIs block signals needed for tumors to grow. Imatinib mesylate is a TKI that may be used to treat Kaposi sarcoma.
Source links and citations
Preserved source evidence · Independent clinical review pending · Not medical advice