More Chemotherapy but More Targeted

 

 Just when you thought I couldn't possibly add any new terms to the list, I introduce to you, KADCYLA (kad-SY-luh). Due to my non-pathologic complete response (which means there were still cancer cells in my tumor that was removed), I need a different medication instead of Herceptin and Perjeta. 

 KADCYLA is essentially Herceptin (a monoclonal antibody) and Emtansine (a chemotherapy). More specifically, it is an antibody-drug conjugate consisting of the humanized monoclonal antibody trastuzumab covalently linked to the cytotoxic agent DM1. Here's the technical visual:

 Unlike my poor attempt to explain chemotherapies in a previous post, I like that the Kadcyla website actually provides the information on how KADCYLA is thought to work.

 Currently, my doctors have differing views on when to start this new infusion. They will be discussing it today to balance the need for wound healing from surgery with continuation of chemotherapy to kill any lingering cancer cells that may be anywhere in my body. 

 Here we go again. I will receive KADCYLA every 3 weeks for 14 cycles. I did the math. That is 42 weeks. There are 52 weeks in a year. I'm in this for the long haul.

 This patient brochure is very comprehensive, in case you wanted more light reading on this topic.