What potential risk is associated with treatments targeting HER2?

Treatments targeting HER2, such as trastuzumab (Herceptin), are primarily used for certain types of breast and gastric cancers. One of the significant risks associated with these treatments is cardiac failure. The mechanism behind this risk relates to the role of HER2 in the heart; it is involved in the regulation of cardiac function and cell survival. Inhibition of HER2 can potentially lead to disruptions in these processes, which may result in cardiotoxicity. This risk is especially concerning in patients who may already have underlying heart conditions or those receiving concurrent chemotherapy that is also known to impact cardiac health.

The other options, while they represent serious medical conditions, are not typically associated with HER2-targeted therapies. Respiratory failure, hepatic failure, and kidney failure are not common side effects of these treatments and would likely arise from different underlying conditions or treatment modalities. Thus, understanding the specific risks involved in HER2 targeting is crucial for managing patient care effectively.