Cancer Data Base

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL); how can we do better with fewer side effects?

Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) was one of the earliest cancers to be successfully treated with chemo/radiotherapy. Although successful, in the majority of patients, this form of therapy is associated with significant toxicity. A number of groups are investigating the possibility of reducing therapy, minimizing toxicity and maintaining a good outcome. A group from Koln (abs no333) will present evidence that 2 cycles, instead of 4, of the standard chemotherapy (ABVD) and a lower radiation dose (20Gy instead of 30Gy) are sufficient to achieve a similar rate of remission and prolonged survival with reduced toxicity.

Another study (abs no1628) demonstrates that all four components of the chemotherapy (ABVD) are necessary. Although the majority of patients are cured when diagnosed with early stage HL, a small proportion of patients does not respond and have a poorer outcome. For this subset of patients, an Italian group (abs no 73) using FDG-PET scanning (a way of scanning the cancer and measuring its metabolic activity) after 2 courses' is able to predict outcome. Therefore patients in the non-responsive group may have their treatment intensified to provide cure.

Multiple Myeloma; now a chronic disease

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is the second most common blood cancer with an incidence of approximately 4-5 new cases per 100.000 people per year. In Europe there were estimated to be 31,883 new cases of MM and 21,677 MM-related deaths in 2002.

One of the major complications in MM is bone involvement by the cancer cells leading to pain and a risk of fractures. The Medical Research Council (MRC group from UK) will report on the benefit of the drug Zolendronic acid compared to Clodronate for the delay of bone disease and prolongation of survival.

Proteasomes are intracellular complexes that break down proteins. Proteasome inhibitors are new and potentially effective drugs in MM and the use one of these, Carfilzomib, in patients with relapsed or refractory MM will be discussed. The results of a large international trial employing classic chemotherapy with the addition of Lenalidomide, a class of drugs called immunomodulators (IMIDs), will be updated.

Italian and Dutch groups will discuss the role of genetic markers in predicting the clinical outcome, following specific treatments.

Maintenance therapy after autologous stem cell transplant remains a controversial issue. Data, derived from a large randomized trial, about the role of Thalidomide in this setting, will be presented. Finally the HOVON group will report on their experience with allogeneic stem cell transplant using a new treatment strategy.

New strategies for patients with Lymphoma

In spite of treatments, which include the humanized monoclonal anti-body Rituximab, a number of patients with a form of Lymphoma called Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLCBL) will relapse. Gisselbrecht et al (abs No 1059) demonstrate a critical role for autologous stem cell transplantation in the management of patients with relapsed DLBCL whose initial treatment included Rituximab.

Visani et al (abs no 469) demonstrate a potentially important role for a new drug, bendamustine, in patients with relapsed lymphoma. They identify a new, and well-tolerated, transplant regimen for evaluation in patients with high-risk lymphoma.

Ruggeri et al (abs no 1699) provide new data demonstrating an important role for umbilical cord blood transplantation in the management of high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. This approach may be important in treating children with high-risk ALL who lack a family (sibling) or unrelated stem cell donor.

Stadler et al (abs no 1817) explore the role of delayed donor lymphocyte infusion as a strategy for delivering curative immunotherapy in patients transplanted for high-risk leukemia. Their important study demonstrates an encouraging safety profile and a new approach to treatment.

Stem Cell Transplantation (SCT) and immunotherapy

The factors determining the numbers of stem cells mobilized by the cytokine GCSF in normal donors remain undetermined. Martin-Antonio et al (abs no 2096) have identified polymorphisms (inherited differences) in the stromal adhesion molecule VCAM-1, which has a significant impact on the numbers of CD34+ progenitor cells, collected after administration of GCSF. These data may assist in the identification of new stem cell collection strategies.

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Jedema et al (abs no 680) have examined mechanisms of resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Importantly they identify immunotherapeutic mechanism, which may contribute to the eradication of resistant leukemia stem cells, and potential mechanism of resistance.

Galski et al (abs no 1170) have examined mechanisms of resistance to TKIs in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. They identified a potential role for drugs, which modulate the activity of the multidrug transporter p glycoprotein in overcoming resistance to TKIs and immunotherapeutic killing by NK cells (a type of lymphocyte).

Novel Therapeutic Approaches

Berger et al (abs no 1693) demonstrate clinical activity of a new proteasome inhibitor MLN 9708 in preclinical models of high-risk lymphoma identifying a potentially new treatment modality in this common hematological malignancy in which drug resistance is frequently documented.

Granulocytes (White Cells)

An increased risk of malignant transformation (Myelodysplastic Syndrome, MDS, or Acute Myeloid leukemia, AML) is well documented in patients with congenital neutropenia (CN, people born with an abnormally low white cell count)). Zeidler et al (abs no 1765) identify molecular and clinical factors predicting the likelihood of development of MDS or AML.

Marks et al (abs no 2188) report important data identifying a potential benefit for the use of voriconazole (an anti-fungal drug) as primary prevention of systemic fungal infection in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

New Throat Cancer Treatment

Throat cancer is one of the cancers which occur in the throat. This is disease is found with different names like vocal cord cancer, throat cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the glottis. This is the cancer which is found in both men and women.

The throat cancer is the cancer which appears in the upper part of the throat. It is the cancer which appears in the throat that is vocal cords, voice box (larynx), or other areas of the throat. This cancer spreads not only occurs in the other parts of the throat also. This is cancer which can occur in both men and women. This cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that have mutated from normal tissues. This growth can kill when these cells prevent normal function of vital organs or spread throughout the body, damaging essentials systems.
For more information meet: dr jack
This throat cancer has some alternate names like vocal cord cancer, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the glottis, cancer of the pharynx, vocal cord cancer and others. This cancer as it occurs to the throat and the parts related to it so it is named after it. This cancer also occurs when the normal cells undergo a transformation whereby they grow and multiply without normal controls. This cancer involves tumors on the tonsils, vocal cords, voice box (larynx) and at the base of the tongue.
The main cause for the exposure for this cancer is the consumption of the tobacco that plays a significant role in many of the cases. The causes for this cancer are the heavy smoking of cigarettes, chewing tobacco, excessive use of alcohol is also one of the causes for its occurrence. But if the man is addicted to both smoking and consuming alcohol then he is at higher risk of getting the disease. But this is more occurred in men than women. This disease can occur to any age but mainly occurs to the age group who is above 45 of age. This can be controlled with herbal products Some of the other factors for the occurrence of this cancer are the enlargement of the thyroid gland called chronic goiter. This cause may be due to the radiation exposure and the family history of cancer or the genetic predisposition.

The symptoms of the hoarseness, sore throat, neck pain, difficulty in swallowing, swelling in the neck, unintentional weight loss, cough, coughing up blood, abnormal breathing sounds, numbness or the paralyses of the muscles in the face, swelling of the jaw, shortness of breath, chest pain and many other reasons also. This cancer also has some of the common symptoms like fever, chills, night sweats, weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, malaise.
The above symptoms are not to be considered as a serious one as these may also be the causes for some of the common health upsets also. But if the person is adult then he has to undergo a medical checkup and have a take care of his health.
The signs and tests can be done when an examination of the neck and the throat may show the cancer of the throat. The symptom may appear bloody or lump on the throat which appears on the outside of the neck. Biopsy and the analysis of tissues that appear abnormal may conform the presence of the cancer tumor.
If you experience any of the above throat cancer symptoms it is advised that you see your healthcare provider for a more thorough check so the proper diagnose and treatment can be apply in the initial stage.
the best way of preventing this cancer is to quit smoking and preventing the consumption of tobacco. Many cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors such as excessive exposure to sunlight and heavy drinking. We should cultivate a habit of taking healthy diet that is the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits. Keeping the health fit by doing the exercises, meditation, yogasanas, cultivation of morning jog or walk, having the nutritious food in the diet, protecting ourselves from bad atmosphere may make us to be free from the diseases also.
Some people at high risk for developing certain cancers can take medication to reduce their risk. But yet the treatment must be aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of its spread to other parts of the body. The treatment of the cancer depends on certain issues like the age of the patient, general health condition, the size of the tumor, extent of the cancer and others.
This is the cancer which may be found at its advanced stage. So it is an urge need that the patient should be careful while choosing the correct physician for his treatment. This treatment is aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of spread of the cancer to the other parts of the body. The earlier it is diagnosed the earlier it is treated.
Treatment is aimed at destruction of the cancer and prevention of spread of the cancer to other parts of the body. The earlier throat cancer is diagnosed, the better the prospect of recovery. If the treatment is not given then it can grow and can cause to death. So it is better to get treated at its initial stage. The treatment needs long term recovery but if have a hope of conquering it then you can have it. You should be mentally firmed and be prepared to achieve in curing it.
The people who come to our center have a hope of curing the disease and becoming healthy. We support you with this attitude of yours as we use the alternative supplements which are natural and cure the disease with no side effects with miraculous improvements in your health condition. We make you feel ease and get away from your suffer.

Homeopathy Treatment for Prostate Cancer by Dr Harshad Raval Md Homeopathy India

Prostate cancer and homeopathy treatment.

Prostate cancer is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells that results in the formation of a tumor in the prostate gland. Prostate, the walnut sized gland, is a part of the reproductive system which lies deep in the pelvis. It is located in front of the rectum and underneath the urinary bladder and surrounds the urethra, (the urine tube running from the bladder, through the prostate and the penis). It contains gland cells that produce some of the seminal fluid, which protects and nourishes sperm cells in semen and supports the ejaculatory ducts, or sperm tubes. The prostate continues to grow till a man reaches adulthood and is maintained after it reaches normal size as long as male hormones are produced.

Prostate cancer begins most often in the outer part of the prostate. It is the most common cancer in men older than age 50. In most men, the cancer grows very slowly. In fact, many men with the disease will never know they have the condition. Early prostate cancer is confined to the prostate gland itself, and the majority of patients with this type of cancer can live for years with no problems. In some cases, it may spread from the prostate to nearby lymph nodes, bones or other organs. This spread is called metastasis. Most Prostate cancers originate in the posterior prostate gland, the rest originate near the urethra. Often the disease has no symptoms until the disease is well advanced. However, as the tumor grows, it may spread from the prostate to surrounding areas like lymph nodes, bones or other organs. This may result in back pain. Men with prostate cancer may experience any of the following symptoms.

A need to urinate frequently, especially at night;
Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine;
Weak or interrupted flow of urine;
Painful or burning urination or bowel movement;
Difficulty in having an erection;
Painful ejaculation;
Blood in urine or semen; or
Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs.

It is advised to consult a doctor immediately if you have experienced any of the above symptoms. Men aged 50 and above have the chances of developing prostate cancer. Those who have a family history of prostate cancer should consider screening at age 45.

Prostate cancer can be staged as ‘A,B,C,D’. Stage A and B cancers are curable. Stages C and D are treatable, but their prognoses are discouraging.

Stage A - This is the very early stage without any sysmtoms, in this stage cancer cells are confined to the prostate. It can be identified with PAS tests and Biopsy. This type of cancer is usually curable.

Stage B – In this stage, it is known that cancer is in several places within the prostate. It is detectable by PAS.

Stage C - In this stage, cancer cells can be found throughout the prostate as well as near by tissue or the bladder. This stage is determined by Digital Rectal Exam, or CT/ MRI scans, and/or Sonography. Some Stage C cancers are curable.

Stage D : At this stage, cancer has spread beyond the prostate and nearby lymph nodes, distant bones, organs such as liver, lungs and also to other tissues. This is usually determined by bone scan, Prostascint scan or other studies. Stage D cancer is not curable but treatable.

Treatment

Treatment depends on individual circumstances such as the man’s age and general health, extent of the cancer etc. Elderly patients with minor sysmptoms., early stage cancer, or coexisting illness may be treated conservatively.

There are many different ways to treat prostate cancer. It is advisable to get advise from two or more doctors before making a final decision about the treatment. Treatment includes Prostatectomy and Hormone Therapy or anti-antrogen drugs, Chemotherapy and Radio Therapy.

Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy, is used either alone or in combination with surgery or radiation. It is based on the fact that prostate cancer cells frequently use the male hormone , testosterone as a Fertilizer and the absence of this hormone may lead to the death or weakening of prostate cancer cells. So It is used to stop the production of testosterone hormone and hence a person with Stage C and D cancer can have their life extended and improved by the use of hormonal therapy.

There are side effects associated with Hormone therapy. They include hot flashes, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, decrease in muscle mass and strength, personality changes, decreased mentation and osteoporosis.

Prostatectomy : Patients in good health and under age 70 is usually offered surgery as a treatment option. Various types of surgical procedures are done depending on the stage of prostate cancer and patient’s over all health.

Prostatectomy is the most common treatment option for localized prostate cancer. It involves surgical removal of prostate gland and some other near by tissues and reattaching the urethra and bladder. It will prevent further spread of the cancer. If the prostate cancer is in the early stages, prostatectomy can treat the cancer completely. This is done either through a surgical incision in the lower abdomen or the space between the scrotum and rectum.

These procedures also produce side effects like impotency, Urinary incontinence, narrowing of the urethra and difficulty in urination.

Radio Therapy: It is a form of treatment which uses high levels of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing and dividing thus reducing damage to healthy cells. It is more effective for early stage prostate cancer.

Good nutrition is an important part of recovering from the side effects of radiation therapy.

Slight skin changes will be visible after radiation. Skin may become red, swollen, warm and sensitive, as if in a sunburn but it is temporary. The long term effects include, slight darkening of the skin, enlarged pores, increased or decreased sensitivity of the skin and a thickening of tissue or skin.

Chemotherapy: It is a combination of drugs which is effective to kill or slow the growth of rapidly multiplying cells. Chemotherapy is usually prescribed to men with advanced prostate cancer. Chemotherapy drugs are carefully controlled in both dosage and frequency so that cancer cells are destroyed while minimizing the risk to healthy cells. As the drugs circulate throughout the whole body, they can effect the healthy cells also.

The side effects of chemotherapy include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lowered blood counts, reduced ability of the blood to clot, and an increased risk of infection.

HOMEOPATHY TREATMENT:

CROTALUS : cancer with haematuria.

CONIUM : On every emotion, with itching of prepuce.

SEPIA : discharge during stool.

KALI BHICH : pain during chronic prostates.

SILICEA : While straining at stool.

NITRIC ACID : Discharge after stool.

NUX VOMICA : discharge during stool.

THUJA : When the discharge is greenish and thick.

STAPHISAGRIA : prostatic discharge after sexual excesses.

SELENIUM : discharge during stool.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions

Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C)