LEUKEMIA SOLUTION Tips, Info and Guide

What is leukemia, and what are its types and its treatment

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:17:00 +0000

Leukemia is a malignant cancer that first affects the organs that produce blood and blood cells,like the lymph and the bone marrow. These organs loose control over the number and quality of white blood cells (also known as leukocytes) that they produce, so the blood gets saturated with with abnormal white blood cells that can't fulfill their initial role of protecting the body against viruses and bacteria.

Normally, the body produces a limited amount of cells that die after they do what they are supposed to do, and then new ones are created. But when cancer occurs this process malfunctions and the cells are not developing properly and they do not die when they should. Furthermore, although they do not die, more and more cancerous cells are created.

There are four types of leukemia cancer:
-acute Myelogenous Leukemia
-chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

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-acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
-chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

The acute leukemia developers very rapidly and is more dangerous, while chronic leukemia develops more slowly and is not too severe. Unfortunately the cause of leukemia still remains unknown, but doctors and researchers are working hard to find it.

Patients with leukemia are not able to fight against diseases anymore because the white blood cells are defective, and when the cancer spreads through the whole body a simple infection can be almost deadly to the patient.

Leukemia has many symptoms that may vary from patient to patient. The most common are:
-a general state of fatigue and weakness
-sudden weight loss for no reason
-fever that appears out of nowhere
-very frequent infections with viruses that are hard to cure because the body can't fight them anymore
-bone pain
-sudden bleeding and blood in urine

It is extremely important that you visit a doctor as soon as you suspect anything because unfortunately the cancer can spread fast and once it has affected all the body little can be done to stop it from killing you.

Leukemia can be treated, but it depends on how far it has advanced. The treatment tries to reduce the white blood cell productions. Then doctors determine whether the patient responds to the treatment or not. If he does, then it is continued, but even if the treatment manages to stop the defective cell production, it may still occur, even after a few years. If the treatment is successful the patient must return from time to time so that the doctors can kill all the remaining blood cells.

The treatment methods are chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or in some cases transplants can be done.

Some patients do not survive the treatment, but the number of victims is decreasing as years pass, and we can only hope that an effective cure will be found in the near future.

How to Prevent Leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:35:00 +0000

Leukemia is actually a very tricky disease that may be very hard to diagnose at early stages, but there are certain cautionary measures that can be undertaken to prevent the disease. These measures will also have to do with changes in one's lifestyle. People are actually advised to avoid exposing themselves to herbicides, insecticides and other chemicals to reduce the risks of contacting the disease.

Medics have also argued that Leukemia, in some cases, may be in the genes of a particular bloodline. If there is a history of Leukemia in one's lineage, there is a high chance of striking a member of the same lineage. It is also necessary to see a doctor for check-up if one notices exaggerated weight loss. Medics also argue that people who exercise regularly have low chances of developing the leukemia.

Though prevention of Leukemia is hard, diet can contribute greatly to its appearance. Societies where junk and fatty foods are not in common have reduced chances of experiencing Leukemia prevalence. If a person has been experiencing some disorders of blood, chances are higher that he may also be at risk of contracting Leukemia. It is thus necessary that such a person seeks medical advice as early as possible.

Any chronic health condition may be very hard to bear, and most people have a problem when asked to see a doctor quite often, especially when they are not sick. Leukemia is a disease that Prevention from its penetration or adverse effects is possible, only when the condition is detected early.

By Syed Muzaffar Aqleem Tirmizi

Discover More About Childhood Leukemia and Its Chronic Symptoms

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 17:45:00 +0000

Are you aware of childhood leukemia and where did it come from? You may be thinking that this is not a problem for you or your children today, but how about the future and the next generation? Nobody can't tell where this hematological disease come from, what may have started it, or what may have caused it. And this is what makes it somewhat depressing.

If you have a child who suffers from this disease, have you tried asking your doctor what may have caused this? Usually they can't really pinpoint which is which, for there are so many possible things that can trigger this, like for instance exposure to chemicals like benzene and dioxins, improper use of plastic materials, multiple nutritional problems, and merely because of genetics. All of these may affect the immune system of a child which may lead to further problems and diseases like this cancer of the blood called leukemia.

Do you know that it has been said that every single person has cancer cells in the body and it is possible that we may have already acquired them even at birth. However, these cancer cells are merely not detected as cancer unless it reaches a certain number which can be confirmed as a detectable size through a series of tests done. So you might be wondering how come your child has reached the age of 2, yet that is the only time that he or she have acquired this disease.

You may not be aware of it at first, but in the previous years or months that you are taking care of your child, he or she might have already acquired the chronic symptoms of leukemia, however wasn't still diagnosed having it because the cancer cells can't still be detected. The chronic symptoms may occur to be as a normal illness like frequent fever any time of the day, occasional stomach aches, sweating at night, bruising, getting colds and cough more often than usual. These symptoms are due to frequent ups and downs of the composition of your child's blood count. And usually a pediatrician would ask for a Complete Blood Count test and may prescribe a medicine to cure any possible infections.

Even a pediatrician can't detect childhood leukemia that soon, unless they have done all the tests and created their own work plan to pin point the main issue. Results of the tests sometimes may lead to severe anemia, or iron deficiency, but with concrete tests such as bone marrow testing, you will then be referred to a hematologist who would be able to read the findings of possible cancer cells present in the bone marrow.

It is not that easy to detect childhood leukemia if you are not aware that cancer is already present in our system and it can be triggered. With a strong immune system you can definitely prevent these cells from multiplying. So, better start living a healthy lifestyle and be aware of the environmental factors which could cause such health issues.

By Geri R.

Leukemia Treatment With Green Tea?

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:52:00 +0000

Chronic lymphocyte leukemia is the most common subtype of leukemia in the United States. It is presently an incurable disease. Unlike most other types of cancer in which early diagnosis increases the probability that a patient can be cured, treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy is associated with increased toxicity but no increase in patient survival.

Despite this grim fact, there is good news. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has shown patients with chronic lymphocyte leukemia in a phase one study, had a reduction of their lymphocyte in 33 % of participant. By doing so, the team of cancer researchers from the State University of New Jersey, established a positive link between green tea and a potential treatment of leukemia.

Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the consumption of green tea decreased the risk of cancer. Furthermore, prevention of the apparition of a tumor in animal models by tea, supported its ability to interfere with basic cancer processes, like angiogenesis and inflammation.

Green tea in a pill is still a long way off before the Food and Drug Administration approves this to be prescribed by your oncologist. By counting the phase 2 and the phase 3 studies, we are talking about 4 to 5 years before commercialization if all went well. And I am not bring the cost of these pills.

A tasty drink made with inexpensive ingredient, tea bought from the local market could sidestep many of these concerns. After all, food is the one medicine that we seem quite willing to take at least three times a day.

By Yanick Bertrand Ph.D.

Mantle cell lymphoma. An indolent or an aggressive disease?

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:58:00 +0000

Mantle cell lymphoma is a non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma type of cancer and it represents affection of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system, as part of the immune system, helps fighting against infections or foreign particles. The lymph drains through lymph vessels, a network of tubular channels, into the bloodstream and accumulates in lymphocytes. The lymphocytes or the white blood cells are divided in two groups: the B cells or the B lymphocytes and the T cells or lymphocytes, and can be located not only in the lymph nodes, but in the lymphoid tissue too.

B lymphocytes search the organism for infections or foreign bodies. When something wrong is found B cells transform into plasma cells and secrete antibodies to neutralize the infection. This is the moment when T cells get to do their job. Once neutralized by the B cells the infection or foreign body is destroyed by the T lymphocytes.

While moving through the lymphatic system, the lymph is filtered by the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are located in various regions in our body such as neck, armpit, chest and groin and even abdomen, and have the mission to destroy antigens.

From the two categories of lymphoma that we know, mantle cell lymphoma is a non-Hodgkin’s disease, being a result of weakness from the immunity system. By dividing, slowly or rapidly, the malignant cells form a numerous population that enlarges the lymph nodes. Mantle cell lymphomas symptoms are different from a case to another, and are strictly related to the stage of disease, sex and age of the patient.

MCL is a B cell lymphoma that develops in the zone of the lymph nodes and it is a form of non-Hodgkin’s disease caused by the malignant B lymphocytes.

Mantle cell lymphoma is considered as being a two stage disease. In cases when lymphomas divide slowly the diagnosis is low grade disease, but in cases when the malignant cells divide rapidly the diagnosis is set as high grade lymphoma, in urgent need of proper treatment. Because of this classification of the mantle cell lymphoma, specialists have doubts about where to situate this lymphoma, along with indolent or aggressive diseases.

Mantle cell lymphoma affects especially men that are over 50. Fewer than 33% of the patients are women.

MCL symptoms are pretty much alike to the other lymphomas symptoms. The immune system is getting weaker and from this time towards, problems occur. In early stage the enlargement of lymph nodes is one of the most common symptoms just like anemia and in final stages neurological problems appear.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Mantle cell lymphoma. An indolent or an aggressive disease?

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:12:00 +0000

Scientists have searched new methods of curing Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
For some patients chemotherapy and radiation therapy had good results but for others they have been toxic. For certain types of patients the "monoclonal-antibody–based" therapy has been safe and effective for example: (rituximab) Rituxan and Bexxar which have been tested and which will be administered to patients.

Antibodies are produced by our immune system to protect us against foreign substances which enter our body for example in infections to viruses, transplants. Antibodies(which are found in the blood) bind to one antigen like a key in the lock and this is the signal to which the immune system responds. Monoclonal antibodies are produced in laboratory and they are all the same not like ours which are produced in the body all different. For example, there are the monoclonal antibodies which treat tumor or cancer. Antibodies may be produced as murine(similar in structure with one of a mouse), or half mouse, half human or humanized.

Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma have tumors which are made of B-lymphocytes a type of blood cell, that’s why the therapy with monoclonal antibodies may be effective. The monoclonal antibodies action are directed on B cells and have been tested intensely alone or with a toxin that can kill tumor cells or with radioactive combinations. It is a matter of choice in the treatment of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma for some the therapy with monoclonal antibodies may be of great effect , but for others it may lead to complications, in patients with a low health status we can’t administer radioactive antibodies.

Rituxan is used in combination with chemotherapy to treat lymphomaand and is the only monoclonal antibody treatment currently approved for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Rituxan has also been combined with radiation therapy for an even greater effect, has been given twice intravenously in an outpatient clinic, without anything else it is usually given once a week for 4 weeks intravenously. There may appear side effects: chills, rigors or shakes, fever.
Bexxar is a murine monoclonal antibody, has been studied in the radioactive form is administered in two intravenous infusions one week apart, during the week between there are made tests to determine the correct quantity of radiation which will be administered. The treatment with Bexxar has not been yet approved. Unpleasant reactions (such as fever, chills, shakes) occur and patients must take oral iodine supplement for a three week period to minimize the risk of thyroid damage. Human anti-mouse antibody (HAMA) response is a reaction that seems to occur as an immune response to to the murine antibody.

There are studied several other monoclonal antibodies treatments, like Oncolym and "LL2” that have an acceptable toxicity and a demonstrated anti-lymphoma effect. In conclusion, the treatments with monoclonal antibodies against non-Hodgkin lymphoma have some sort of toxicity so they are viewed as potential strategies, but it is not clear yet if they are suited for all the patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

By: Groshan Fabiola

The risk for the patients with RA to develop lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:25:00 +0000

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory joint disease which was proved to have a strong connection with lymphoma.Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes. The traget of the treatment in RA is to lower pain and to prevent the disease from worsening. this link between the two diseases is considered by many specialists when establishing the appropriate treatment in RA.

There have been made a lot of studies in order to justify the association between chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and malignant lymphomas.

RA manifests as a gradual deterioration of the tissues surrounding the joints, leading to pain and difficulty when moving the affected fingers, elbows and knees. This happens because the patient’s own immune system attacks cells around the joints.

RA is diagnosed more often in women and it leads to lymphoma more often in men. This is why it is believed that most people with RA will never develop lymphoma.

There are different stages of RA. We can speak about a low stage or degree of RA, a moderate and a severe one. This classification is made after the number of joints which are affected. There is also a link between the stage of the RA and the risk for the patients to develop lymphoma. If there are less than 6 joints affected the patient can be diagnosed with a low degree of RA; between 6 and 20 joints affected, there is a moderate RA and over 20 joints affected there is a severe stage of RA.

The patients with a low degree of RA have the lowest risk of developing malignant lymphoma, while those with a moderate and severe level of RA have the highest risk of developing this type of cancer.

There is no connection between the medication used to treat RA and the development of lymphoma. The standard treatment in RA includes methotrexate, anti-malarial agents, oral steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin.

But there are some new treatments which include anti-TNF-alpha drugs which seem to increase the risk for the patients with RA to develop lymphoma.

There are no studies that can prove which kind of RA treatment can reduce the risk of developing lymphoma.
So as it is not very clear what drugs or which of the stages of the RA increases the risk to develop lymphoma, it is very important for the patients to understand the phenomenon and to ask the doctor for help to lower the risk.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Lymphocytes and lymphomas classification

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:27:00 +0000

A disease of white blood cells called lymphocytes take to lymphoma, a complex cancer that is often confusing for patients and doctors as well. Its understanding must be completed after the good perception of the terms normal lymphocytes and lymphoma (malignant) lymphocytes and their classification.

Fighting infections, this is the thing that white blood cells, called normal lymphocytes, do. Lymphocytes are divided in B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes, each one of them with different responsibilities. When discovering an infection B cells become plasma cells and secrete antibodies which stick to the infected cells. The other white cells will eliminate the antibodies and the infected particles (also known as antigens) as soon as they recognize it.

T cells can also attack antigens, combat viruses and tumor cells, but they do not secrete antibodies like B cells, their responsibility being resumed at body immunity.

The numerous T and B lymphocytes go through the body in search of antigens to combat. The B and T cells recognize different antigens and when meeting one, lymphocytes divide rapidly and their number increases.

After dividing, the T and B lymphocytes form groups and may cause lymph nodes to enlarge.

Identical lymphocytes form a cell population. These cells, in any way they divide, slowly or rapidly, can cause lymph nodes to enlarge. Unlike normal lymphocytes, lymphoma (malignant) lymphocytes do not mature normally remaining at the stage of development.

In the last decades our questions about lymphoma were answered differently. Science could offer us irrelevant classifications of lymphoma. From 10 to 10 years approximately we receive more and more answers, more detailed and always in change. Lymphoma classification has a strong connection with lymphocyte tumors classification. The last known classification uses the lymphoma cells morphology, phenotype and genotype to determine the type of lymphoma.

The morphology means how malignant lymphocytes look under the microscope. The type of lymphoma lymphocyte can be determined only in labs and refer to unique characteristics. The genotype refers also to a unique characteristic, the DNA of the malignant lymphocytes. Only after these classification tests the diagnosis of lymphoma can be certified.

Just like lymphocytes, lymphomas are divided into two groups: Hodgkin’s disease and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The first group, Hodgkin’s disease, not as common as the second one, is composed of cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells, and a mixture of infected particles. This disease affects young adults, unlike the Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma that it’s often discovered at people over 60, but fortunately it’s curable in most of the cases.

By: Groshan Fabiola

General things about mantle cell lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 16:13:00 +0000

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and is known as cancer of the lymphoid tissue. We know two categories of lymphomas: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

We are going to talk about a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma. This type of cancer can be defined as an enlargement of the population of malignant lymphoid cells, happening in the area of the lymph nodes and tissues. These cells have an unusual structure being considered as mutant cells because of their lack of development. Maturing improperly these cells become cancerous.

The lymphatic system helps the body to fight against infections or foreign particles. When the white cells are mature they seek for infections through the body. There are two types of white cells in the lymphatic system, the B cells and the T cells. Once an infection is found by the B cells, the second type of white cells, the T ones come to destroy it. This is how the immune system works.

Lymphomas are cancerous cells from the lymphatic system. The non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas that occur in the lymphatic system include follicular lymphomas, Burkitt’s lymphomas which are non-cleaved lymphomas, MALT lymphomas which are lymphomas from the marginal sides of the tissues, small and large cell lymphomas, and the subject of discussion, the mantle cell lymphomas (MCL).

The classification of the mantle cell lymphomas separates them into three categories: mantle zone type MCL cells, nodular type and immature (blastic) type. Diagnoses, in most of the cases, refer to mixed mantle or nodular type MCL.

The mantle cell lymphoma is a great concern, many specialists debating over this subject. Some consider it intermediate while others say that mantle cell lymphoma is a low-grade cancer because of its slow development. Both of these sides come with arguments based on studies and both sides are right. Patients suffering of blastic type MCL have less chances of survival comparing to the other MCL patients, because in these cases cancer spreads faster.

Persons suffering of mantle cell lymphoma are rarely under 50 and women represent a little more than a quarter in the patients number.

It’s not easy to say if a patient suffers of mantle cell lymphoma. Some believe that an immunologic test is required for a correct diagnosis.

Treatment is prescript by specialists, because each case is unique and is related to many factors like age, sex and especially stage of disease.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Good news about Bexxar and follicular lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:36:00 +0000

Until three or four years ago, there weren’t a lot of treatment choices for lymphoma patients who relapsed or had their cancer transform into a more aggressive form of the disease. Fortunately, these patients have many more options today due to targeted therapies such as Rituxan (rituximab), vaccines, stem cell transplants and the radioimmunotherapies, Zevalin (ibritumomab) and Bexxar (tositumomab).

Bexxar is the topic of today’s blog.

Basically, radioimmunotherapies combine a drug with a radioactive substance. Bexxar is composed of the monoclonal antibody tositumomab and the radioisotope Iodine-131, which is attached to the antibody. In lay terms, radiation is usually given externally, but in the case of Bexxar it is given internally, attached to the tositumomab.

Approximately 90 percent of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas have the CD20 antigen on the surface of the cells. With Bexxar, tositumomab finds and sticks to the CD20 antigen, and the Iodine-131 then gives off radiation and kills the cells.

This differs from Rituxan (which only kills the cells that have the antibody attached), in that it may also kill other cancer cells near the cells to which Bexxar is attached. It’s like a drive-by shooting. Anyone close to the target is at risk and can become collateral damage.

Bexxar has been approved for B-cell NHL patients who have already been treated and whose disease did not respond or has returned. It has also been approved for those with transformed disease. It is only given one time (unlike Rituxan, which can be given repeatedly).

The really good news is that results from investigational trials of Bexxar show that complete remissions can be achieved in newly diagnosed patients, as well as in end-stage patients who have exhausted all other options. Bexxar may soon become approved as a frontline treatment for several lymphomas.

As usual, with most drug therapies, Bexxar can be a little scary. Someone I know had Bexxar in the early years (it has been studied for 13 years), but it caused him some sleepless nights thinking before deciding to get it. He was in the hospital when it was administered and he didn’t see anyone for two days. His food was given to him by staff dressed like astronauts because at that time they didn’t know how high of a radiation contamination risk it was. If no one could even be in his presence, what was his level of contamination!? He was told not to share a bed with anyone or be around others for one to two weeks after his treatment. Scary stuff.

By: Diane Fallon

General aspects of Mantle Cell Lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 21:07:00 +0000

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) takes part to a group of cancers which affect the lymphatic system. This diseases are known as non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. The immune system is a part of the lymphatic system. It’s role is to protect the body against agents that can determine infection and disease. It is represented by a network of tubular channels called lymph vessels that drain a fluid with a watery aspect known as lymph. Lymph is drained from different areas of the body into the bloodstream. It accumulates in the tiny spaces between tissue cells and contains proteins, fats, and certain white blood cells called lymphocytes.

Lymph circulates through the lymphatic system and it is filtered by small structures called lymph nodes. This filtering helps to remove microorganisms (e.g., viruses, bacteria, etc.) and other foreign bodies that can affect the human body. The lymph nodes are organized in groups and they are located throughout the body, including the neck, under the arms, at the elbows, and in the chest, abdomen, and groin. In the lymphatic nodes are stored the white blood cells called lymphocytes. They may also be found in other lymphatic tissues. The lymphatic system includes mot only the lymphatic nodes, but also the spleen and the tonsils. The role of the spleen is to filter worn-out red blood cells and produces lymphocytes. The tonsils helps to fight infection too. Lymphatic tissues also include the thymus. It is a relatively small organ located behind the breastbone. It is thought to play an important role in the immune system until puberty. Another important role in the imune system is played by the bone marrow, which is the spongy tissue inside the cavities of bones. The bone marrow produces blood cells. Lymphatic tissue and circulating lymphocytes can also be found in other regions of the body, such as the skin, small intestine, liver, and other organs. There are two main types of lymphocytes: B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytess. The B- lymphocytes produces specific antibodies in order to destroy certain invading microorganisms The T-lymphocytes destroy directly the microorganisms or helps the activities of other lymphocytes.

The cause of Mantle cell lymphoma and of the other cancers of the lymphatic system called lymphomas is represented by the errors that can occur in the production of a lymphocyte. This kind of errors determine the lymphocyte to transform into a malignant cell. If there is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth and multiplication of malignant lymphocytes it may lead to the enlargement of a lymph node region or even regions. The malignant process can involve the spleen and bone marrow and spread to other tissues and organs. The results of the malignant proliferation are specific complications that threaten the life of the patient.. The symptoms and physical findings are different from case to case. They depend on the extent and region or regions involved and on different other factors.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas are considered to be lymphomas caused by abnormal B-lymphocytes and or derived from abnormal T-lymphocytes. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell lymphoma that develops from malignant B-lymphocytes which can be observed in a region of the lymph node called the mantle zone. The Non- Hodgkin’s lymphoma may also be described considering certain characteristics of the cancer cells which can be seen under a microscope. it is very important how rapid is their tendance to grow and spread. Non- Hodgkin’s lymphoma can be considered a low- grade lymphoma The malignant cells tend to grow and spread slowly. There are few associated symptoms. There are also "intermediate-" or "high-grade" lymphomas in which the malignant cells grow rapidly. This forms require prompt treatment. Experts have classified MCL as an aggressive lymphoma, even if there are some aspects of indolent lymphoma.

According to various studies MCL affects men over the age of 50 years. Many affected patients have widespread disease at diagnosis, with involved regions including multiple lymph nodes, the spleen, and sometimes the bone marrow, the liver, and even regions of the gastrointestinal tract.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 17:17:00 +0000

Both non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and other conditions can cause similar symptoms. So the presence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cannot be given from these symptoms. In this case in establishing the diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma an important role is occupied by diagnostic tests.

When non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is diagnosed no symptoms are present to patients. Often the lymphoma is discovered by doctor after a physical examination or an investigation for some other condition, such as a blood test or a chest X-ray.

Symptoms can be divided into four broad groups: swelling in one or more lymph nodes, constitutional symptoms, symptoms that are attributable to lymphoma swellings outside the lymph nodes, symptoms that are attributable to decreased numbers of blood cells.

The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the time of diagnosis is a painless, swollen lymph node, usually in the neck, the armpit or the groin. These swellings do not present pain or other symptoms, but often steadily increase in size. Patients with aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and some with indolent non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma present swollen lymph nodes at the time of diagnosis.

Swollen lymph nodes are very common and the people with swollen nodes do not have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is infection. Swollen lymph nodes go down after the infection has cleared up.

Other common symptoms include: constitutional symptoms (symptoms of being generally unwell) and symptoms that are attributable to lymphoma swellings outside the lymph nodes. Symptoms indicating that a person is unwell are called constitutional symptoms.

Symptoms that commonly occur in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma include: recurrent, unexplained fevers (with body temperature over 38 degrees Centigrade), night sweats, which may drench nightclothes and sheets, unintended weight loss (defined as losing more than 10% of the body weight in 6 months), severe and persistent fatigue or tiredness and decreased appetite.

Fevers, night sweats and weight loss are used in the staging of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma stage IIB indicates that one or more of these three symptoms are present, whereas stage IIA indicates that none of these three symptoms is present. These first symptoms are sometimes called ’B symptoms’.

Other symptoms that people with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma may experience include: breathlessness or cough itchiness that is persistent and may be felt all over the body.

If the lymphoma is in another part of the body, outside the lymph nodes different symptoms can occur. Abdominal pain, indigestion or diarrhea may be caused by a lymphoma in the stomach or intestines. Recurrent, unexplained fevers, night sweats and unintended weight loss: the so-called ’B symptoms’ Fevers, night sweats and weight loss may be present to patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Numbers of blood cells (such as red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets) are decreased at people with lymphoma. This happen because the lymphoma is in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. Sometimes cell numbers can be decreased even if a sign of any bone marrow involvement is not present.

People are tired and breathless when low numbers of red blood cells, or anemia are present. Low numbers of white blood cells make people more prone to infection and low numbers of platelets makes people more likely to bruise or bleed easily. In non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can appear all of these.

It is important to know these symptoms for a better treatment.

By: Groshan Fabiola

What are the symptoms of lymphoma?

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:27:00 +0000

Lymphoma is a very difficult disease if watched from the symptoms perspective. That is to say that besides being quite "ugly " , these lymphoma signs can also be attributed to other medical conditions as well. Cat scratch fever has similar symptoms to lymphoma, making this disease even that more difficult to diagnose. There are two types of lymphoma for which symptoms are presented: non- Hodgkin’ s lymphoma and Hodgkin’ s lymphoma.

The symptoms for lymphoma disease are as follows:
- general tiredness and lack of your energy; these apply in both lymphoma cases;
- swelling of the lymph node; the upper parts of your body are more often affected, but any node that is related to the lymph organ can swell; this is not painful at all, opposite to the lymph nodes that get infected; these symptoms as well can be found in both lymphoma types;
- loss of weight is another symptom that applies to both lymphoma diseases; if you suffer from lymphoma, you are very likely to loose at least six percent of your body weight in a very short period of time;
- you will also suffer from chills and fever if suffering from any of the lymphoma diseases; the fever that you will have is not persistent;
- itching is another lymphoma symptom, but it applies more to Hodgkin’ s lymphoma, than to the other lymphoma type; the itching is more deep in your skin and it can affect almost any part of your body;
- sweating at night, for apparently no reason is another lymphoma sign, that as the one above, refers more to the Hodgkin’ s type of lymphoma;

Besides these lymphoma symptoms, that are the most common ones, there are also some other signs, which are less common:
- pain in the lower back is a sign for both lymphoma types of disease; this happens because the lymph nodes that are expanding actually press your nerves;
- in the Hodgkin’ s lymphoma case, after consuming alcohol, you may suffer from pain in your lymph nodes;
- lesions, itching and even skin patches are also symptoms of lymphoma, but this time of the non- Hodgkin’ s type of lymphoma;

To diagnose lymphoma by it’ s symptoms alone is quite difficult if not impossible. This is why x- rays or some tests must be used as well. At present, there are almost 35 different lymphoma types. The treatment used differs from a type of lymphoma to another.
By: Groshan Fabiola

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:13:00 +0000

Lymphoma is a term for cancers of the lymphatic system, which includes the spleen, the lymph nodes, and lymphatic vessels. Hodgkin's disease is a type of lymphoma that typically affects young men under the age of 30. All other types of lymphatic cancers are grouped under the term nonHodgkin's lymphoma. The types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma vary from non-aggressive (those that remain in the lymphatic system) to aggressive (those that spread, either quickly or slowly, to other organs of the body). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma usually affects men over the age of 40.

When detected early, Hodgkin's disease is easily treated and has a high cure rate. In fact, close to 90 percent of all cases are cured. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, while not as easy to cure, is often successfully treated.

The exact cause of lymphoma is unknown though the disease is suspected to have a hereditary component.

Signs and Symptoms

Painless swelling of lymph nodes

Itching all over the body

Chronic or intermittent fever and chills

Fatigue and weakness

Appetite and weight loss

Coughing and shortness of breath

Conventional Medical Treatment

If you suspect you have lymphoma, see your physician immediately. To diagnose the condition, your doctor gives you a thorough physical examination, as well as blood and urine tests. If lymphoma is suspected, your doctor may perform a chest X-ray or tomography scan of your abdomen A lymph node biopsy or bone marrow bioPSY may be used to confirm diagnosis.

Radiation is the most common avenue of treatment for Hodgkin's disease; if the cancer is wide spread, chemotherapy is often used. In cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chemotherapy is the preferred treatment, but radiation is sometimes used. Surgery is rarely used as a treatment option for lymphoma. (See "Conventional Medical treatment" in the "Bladder Cancer" entry for more information on radiation and chemotherapy.)

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupunture Acupuncture can be very effective in clearing toxins from the lymphatic system and in helping manage lymphoma-related pain and/or treatmentrelated nausea.

Acupressure This form of massage can be useful in draining toxic lymph nodes and improving the flow of chi throughout the entire lympathic system.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Herbs can be used as tonics to repair damage that chemotherapy and radiation may inflict on the body's immune system. Popular immunity fortifying herbs include formulas such as Rehmannia Six and Cerebral Tonic Pills, along with added angelica, astragalus, Chinese yarn, codonopsis, cordyceps, ginseng, and gotu kola.

for Lymphoma - By: Brain

Characteristics of Hodgkin’s lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:22:00 +0000

Lymphomas are the cancer of the lymphoid tissue, so Hodgkin’s disease which is a type of lymphoma, is also a cancer of this tissue. Lymphoid tissue is part of the lymphatic system which is a major component of the immune defense system. The elements that represents the immune system are organs like spleen, bone marrow, lymph nodes, cells and vesels.THe lymph is a fluid made of plasma and white blood cells, created and transported from tissues to the bloodstream by the immune system.

The lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs located in different areas of the body. this is the place where the lymph usually develops. There are some situations in which lymph develops in patches of lymphatic tissue in organs like the stomach or intestines.

The lymphoma is classified in two categories of diseases, the Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The appearance under the microscope of the cancer cells is different in these two types of lymphoma. The malignant cells which are present in Hodgkin’s lymphoma or the simply Hodgkin’s disease are called by the scientists Reed-Sternberg cells. This disease was identified for the first time in 1832 by the physician Hodgkin. That’s why this disease is called like this.The cause of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is not very well known, but there are known the risk factors that may make a person more likely to develop it. These factors include a compromised immune system and the exposure to the Epstein Barr virus. This virus is responsible for the infectious mononucleosis.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a rare form of cancer. It can affect adults and children. It is more frequent between 15 to 40 years and after 55 years. It is also more common in men.

The symptoms of Hodgkin’s lymphoma are similar to the symptoms of every infections: enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands), night sweats and unexplained weight loss. It is very important for the individuals who experience these symptoms to contact a physician to determine the cause. If it is suspected the Hodgkin’s disease, it is recommended to make a biopsy of the area. The procedure involves removing a small sample of the lymph node tissue which will be exanimate under a microscope.

If the diagnosis is sure, the physician must establish how far the cancer has spread or the stage of the disease. This is necessary for the physician to plan the treatment and it is known that the if the disease has been identified in a lower stage there is a better prognosis for recovery.

Hodgkin’s disease is a type of lymphoma. Lymphoma is the cancer of the lymphoid tissue which is part of the lymphatic system. This is a major component of the immune system which consists of organs such as spleen, lymph nodes and vessels. The lymphatic system produces and transports a fluid made of plasma and white blood cells called lymph, from tissues to the bloodstream.

As the lymph nodes, small, bean-shaped organs are located in different areas of the body, Hodgkin’s lymphoma can start almost everywhere. The lymph nodes are found to the neck, armpit, chest and groin. So it usually begins in the lymph nodes, but in some cases, it can start in patches of lymphatic tissue in organs such as the stomach or intestines. The function of the lymph nodes is to produce immune cells like lymphocytes and plasma cells which are involved in filtering bacteria, cancer cells and other foreign material from lymph and which harm the body. When the antigens reaches into the lymph nodes and they recognize them they respond by enlarging and producing additional white blood cells. These white blood cells include lymphocytes and antibodies that help combat a variety of external threats.

There are known two types of lymphocytes involved in the immune response:

* B lymphocytes (B-cells) which defend the body from invading bacteria and other harmful substances. These particles activate the B cells and they transform into plasma cells, which produce antibodies. The antibodies mark the antigens or the foreign materials and then they distroy them.

* T lymphocytes (T-cells) destroy antigens, infected and malignant cells directly, without producing antibodies.

If the lymphocytes cells continue to grow and expand, the lymph glands or other organs in which they are located begin to enlarge. The cells form lumps which develops in the body. The organ function is affected because of the lymphocyte masses which grow larger. It is more difficult for normal cells to function.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is named after the physician who first discovered it in 1832. Hodgkin’s lymphoma spreads through the lymph vessels to neighboring lymph nodes and even to other areas of the body including the liver, bone marrow, spleen or lungs through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream.

The other kind of lymphoma is non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is more frequent than the other form. Hodgkin’s lymphoma can usually be distinguished from Non- Hodgkin’s when tissue is examined under a microscope. This tissue is optained using the method of biopsy. The characteristic cells found in Hodgkin’s lymphoma are known as Reed-Sternberg cells and they are named after the physicians who first described them in detail. It is thought that Reed-Sternberg cells are a form of malignant B–cells.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Detailing The Basics Of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:10:00 +0000

Acute myelogenous leukemia

AML, (acute myelogenous leukemia), is an aggressive cancer of the bone marrow and blood. It is the most common type of leukemia. AML is also known by the following names-acute myeloblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, acute granulocytic leukemia or acute nonlymphocytic leukemia. Blood cells are malformed and useless. The cells can accumulate in parts of the body.

Acute myelogenous leukemia statistics

• Rare in people under 40 years old
• More common in men than in women
• Average age is 65 years old
• 5-year survival rate
o under 65 years old-33%
o over 65 years old-4%
• 2007 it is predicted there will be 13,000 cases (majority will be adults)

The symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia include abnormal blood counts, a general run-down, unwell feeling that never gets better, reoccurring infections, swollen lymph nodes, and bone/ joint pain. Symptoms are acute (comes on suddenly, and accelerates quickly) instead of chronic (mild symptoms that gradually worsen over years).

When the malformed cells collect around parts of the body, it can cause skin, lung, central nervous system, kidney, and even testicle problems. Initially, acute myelogenous leukemia may mimic other conditions. Blood tests identify the possibility of AML. The final diagnosis is usually made after a bone marrow test and sometimes by a spinal tap, also known as a lumbar (lower spine) puncture (LP).

There are several types treatments available, one or more will be used to treat a dignosis of AML.

Chemotherapy-strong drugs taken orally or intravenously that kills the cancer cells. Occasionally it’s injected directly into the spine. It is a systemic treatment because it travels throughout the whole body.

Radiation-high energy rays like X-rays kill the cancer cells

Bone marrow transplants-unhealthy cancer producing bone marrow is destroyed and replaced with matching bone marrow.

Immunotherapy-stimulates the immune system to destroy cancer cells or boosts natural defenses. It can be a made naturally or artificially.

Risk factors for AML

• Previous chemotherapy or radiation treatments
• Exposure to radiation and chemicals like benzene
• Genetic disorders like Downs Syndrome
• Smoking
• Blood disorders like myelodysplasia.

People with risk factors should watch more closely for symptoms of AML because early treatment increases survival rate.

Decisions concerning treatment in acute myelogenous leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:44:00 +0000

Leukemia, especially the acute myelogenous leukemia, which is the most common, is a very serious disease. This condition can go from bad to worse very quickly. Talking to your doctor about the treatment options that are available for you is crucial in this case.

When first diagnosed with this type of leukemia, induction chemotherapy is the first step towards remission. Many of the leukemia patients actually succeed, but there are cases when their condition does not get any better. All leukemia patients will also go through a second treatment phase to try preventing relapse. This second step is more based on the risk factors of the leukemia patient. As I have said before, although chemotherapy can be very successful in almost all leukemia cases, there are patients whose condition will not improve. This is the main reason why, your doctor should also talk to you about the possibility of having a transplant.

Almost 90 percent of all patients under 60 that use chemotherapy as a leukemia treatment will see an improvement in their condition, reaching remission. However, transplant is sometimes the first choice of some leukemia patients. Although this may not be the case for you, talking about the possibility of having a transplant is good. This allows you to have a more flexible treatment and also a quicker transplant, if necessary. In most leukemia cases, if not all, it is best that you be prepared for this option as well. In order to do that, there are some steps you have to take:
- first, acute myelogenous leukemia patients must see a doctor specialized in transplant and discuss with him/ her the risk factors; the leukemia patients also has to undertake a few tests;
- second, you should talk to all your family members that are potential donors and tell them to get tested, either when you are, or soon after;
- together with your doctor, you should then see the list with all other donors and see if there might be a match for you;
- if you are one of those unfortunate leukemia patients that find no suitable donor, then you should definitely talk to your doctor about an autologous transplant;

There are patients who should under any circumstances, discuss transplant in their leukemia case. These are people that will not be able to tolerate transplant. Older leukemia patients or people who suffer from other medical conditions are those that can not go through a transplant procedure.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Medication errors in Leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:48:00 +0000

According to a new scientific study on children suffering from lymphoblast Leukemia, up to one in five patients do not get the appropriate medication due to errors in establishing the proper chemotherapy. Also other Cancer related researches have discovered wrongly prescribed or administered drugs. Most of the errors had small therapeutical interest, but some of them might expose the children to further reoccurrences or on the other hand to symptoms of a medication overdose.

Every year an astonishing number of almost 89 thousand American patients die in hospitals due to an inappropriate medical treatment, 700 of the death cases being caused by the lack of proper medication. Though, these very often encountered cases of medication mistakes in children especially, are not well studied and researched. The wrong administration of the drugs can occur in one or more of the next steps: some prescriptions are wrongly written by physicians, some are wrongly interpreted and processed by the pharmacists, and some drugs are being administered wrong by the caregivers.

Most common mistakes are made by doctors, pharmacists and parents on outer children that should receive a proper care at home instead of remaining in the hospital for a quite long period of time required for the Leukemia treatment. Most of the outer patients suffer little damage from the medication mistakes as many of the wrong drug prescriptions are traced down before they get to be administered to children. Most errors in the medication are benign as they only get to be administered shortly in a few cases. Cancer drugs are however far more toxic and with precise marrow safe doses. They must be strictly prescribed and administered according to specific even complex protocols.

In a recent study, types and rate of medication errors in children following a Leukemia treatment were searched. All blood cancer children were outpatients receiving prescriptions for the required chemotherapy. The authors of the research reviewed a number of 69 patients which have received medication prescriptions and have been administered leukemia drugs.

19% of the leukemia pediatric patients, meaning 13 of 69 children, were identified to have suffered from a wrong chemotherapy. One or more errors were also detected in about17 children in a group of 172. Twelve of the traced mistakes were caused by a deficient administration of the drugs to the patients and five cases were caused by a wrongly prescribed dose of medication.

Most of the made errors had little clinical meaning, but in 4 children the medication mistakes had the potential of becoming dangerous for the future of the therapy. Some patients even suffer from a late administration of the daily dose and risk reoccurrence while a smaller part of the Leukemia treated children receive an overdose of medication.

Specialists detected a rate of 10% errors in medication and proposed the use of a new simplified chemotherapy protocol to minimize the risk of such mistakes.

Different cells producing leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 31 May 2009 13:25:00 +0000

All over the world in every year more than 100 000 people fall prey to leukemia, which is a malignant cancer, and about 10 000 to 20 000 patients of them are children.Leukemia starts and spreads in the blood and marrow.Leukemia can be acute and chronic, myelogenous and lymphocytic the last two indicate the cells types involved.

The cancer is called lymphocytic leukemia when in blood can be found a lot of lymphocytes.In the case of myelogenouse leukemia, granulocytes or monocytes are the white blood cells that are multiplying.Lymphocytic leukemia and myelogenouse leukemia can be acute and chronic.The difference among acute and chronic leukemia is the development of the cells and the progress rate.The acute leukemia progress quickly and contains immature and functionless cells in marrow and blood, but the chronic leukemia is very slow and the cells are often mature and functionally active.

The production of normal red and white blood cells and platelets almost ceases because the cells of the marrow grow in an uncontrolled mode.From this point of view the anemia can develop in the patient because the blood becomes deficient of red blood cells.Also the lack of white cells which helps in fighting against infections lead to deteriorate the body’s immune system.Also the platelets can vanish from blood and marrow because the bleeding rate increases.Among the causes which lead to the appearance of the leukemia are the pollution, toxic chemicals, radiations,hereditary.

The symptoms are different from patient to patient.Day-by-day the immune system of the patient deteriorates, so at the patient appear an discomfort and fatigue, abnormal bleeding, enlarged spleen, fever, chill, flu-like condition, weight loss, problems with appetite, petechiae formation on tiny red spots under the skin, swollen, painful and bleeding gums, swelling of digestive tracks, testicles.Other patients with leukemia can have sores in the eyes, frequent headaches, vomiting.Fortunately leukemia can be treated and the common treatments are chemoterapy and radiation.

The most aggressive treatment against leukemia is the Stem Cell Transplant which can be done from two modes.In the first mode from the patient are taken and preserved the Stem Cells which are returned the patient,only after the cancer cells had killed by using chemotherapy or radiation therapy.The other technique is about the replacing of new and healthy Stem Cells with the damaged bone marrow cells of patient.

Day by day the researches are working hard to discover the principal cause of leukemia and to find the best treatment for the people with leukemia.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Used methods for killing leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sat, 30 May 2009 12:55:00 +0000

The most common treatment for leukemia is the chemotherapy.The therapy for children is produced by radiation and it is used only to treat leukemia in the central nervous system and the testicles.Unfortunately leukemia cannot be cured by surgery.A stem-cell transplant is the method which can be used.

Besides chemotherapy, immunotherapy can be successfully used.Therapeutic vaccines are used in human patients.Induction, consolidation and maintenance are the three phases of chemotherapy used in the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia and it develops over the course of a two to three year period.

In the case of chemotherapy induction and intensification are used for treatment of acute myelogenous leukemia.Chemotherapeutic drugs provided by the cerebrospinal fluid are received by patients throughout the course of treatment.In what concerns the cerebrospinal fluid chemotherapy discourage the spread of leukemia cells to the central nervous system.

Remission is the goal of induction.The body eliminates 99 percent of leukemia cells.The bone marrow is filled with normal hematopoietic stem cells.For most cases chemotherapy treatments last for about a month.For the patients with high-risk higher doses are used and for the acute myelogenous leukemia, different drugs are used.In both cases chemotherapy is continuously administered for ten consecutive days.

For inducing remission of acute promyelocytic leukemia are used retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide, after month of treatment patients survive induction.The person’s condition is critical until blood counts return to normal.Different treatments are required by chronic forms of the disease.The treatment is succesful by using the following medication:imatinib mesylate for patients with chronic myelogenousleukemia and cladribine and 2-deoxycoformycin which are both effective against hairy cell leukemia, a type of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Ten billion leukemia cells remain in the body after induction.The role of goals of consolidation referring to an intensification are to eliminate leukemia cells from locations such as the central nervous system and the testicles,where the cancer cells remains undetected by the immune system;the role of the cells being the one which reduces the number of leukemia cells remaining in the body.The last phase of treatment is the maintenance.Patients with low-risk and high-risk receive different drugs for leukemia in this case,but the drugs are used at lower doses than in the induction phase.

A relatively-new and complex treatment for leukemia is transplantation which consist in cells collected from cavities within bones where blood cells form or from the blood.For children with a poor chance of survival and for whom the treatment relapses the transplantation is used.Blood-forming stem cells are collected from patient or a donor with a nearly identical cell type.In this case the cells are frozen for storage.If the umbilical cord blood is available it can be use as a source of stem cells.

To kill all cancerous cells the patient follows a treatment with a very high dose of chemotherapy and radiation.All normal bone marrow cells are killed due to the does of chemotherapy and radiation.Then the bone marrow is repopulated by the stored stem cells which return to the body.To treat disease and also to maintain the immunity of the body immunotherapy is used.For the patients with leukemia interferon alfa which is an immune-system activator produced as a drug for bolstering the immune system of the body is successfully used.

The custom-made and duplicated antibody is produced in the laboratory and it is designed to interfere with malignant cells only which can also reduce the number of disease cells.Mylotarg is the monoclonal antibody has been approved for treatment of adults with refractory acute myelogenous leukemia.The improved technics and the science evolution have helped the people to find out different ways of destroying leukemia.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Acute lymphocytic Leukemia in children

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:25:00 +0000

Cancer in any of its forms is known to the society as a condition of adults or elder persons; still it can occur at any age even during the care-free childhood period. Children diagnosed with cancer must rapidly grow up and learn hoe to face the illness as well as their parents that will have to be able to care for them.

The most common form of malignant tumors in children is the acute lymphocyte Leukemia and it is known to affect about 2500 pediatric patients every year. The acute forms of Leukemia develop rapidly and spread to the entire body in just a few months if left untreated. Knowing how to recognize the disease seems to be most important as Leukemia can lead to death in a very short time if not treated properly.

Leukemia develops inside the bone marrow and spreads to the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and nervous system. Cancerous marrow cells produce abnormal blood cells; insufficient or inefficient red blood cells lead to anemia, a low number of white blood cells leaves the body helpless to infections, and decreased number of platelets caused bruising and bleedings. General symptoms like headaches, weakness or vomiting also occur when the cancer reaches other main organs.

No way of prevention is known to us today as leukemia cannot be linked to any lifestyle factors. A good life expectation can only be reached if a doctor is seen immediately when symptoms occur and a proper treatment is quickly administered.

The most specific diagnose is the bone marrow biopsy when a small amount of marrow is extracted from the thighbone with a needle. The microscopic examination of the tissue can establish the presence of cancerous cells inside the bone marrow. Further analysis includes blood tests for searching changes in number and function of the three vital blood cells. In Leukemia a risen number of white cells are found together with a decreased number of red ones. Through the blood tests certain diagnose of the particular form of blood cancer can be established.

Cancer cells are dangerous as they divide very quickly and an efficient primer treatment with chemotherapy must stop their multiplication. More types of chemotherapeutics are required to kill all cancerous cells as Leukemia is known to spread very rapidly throughout the whole body. The drug therapy is a long-lasting process and can produce several side-effects such as hair loss, infections, tiredness, nausea, anorexia and vomiting.
New ways of therapy are searched that should only affect the cancerous cells unlike conventional drugs. The stem cells transplantation targeting to replace the lost marrow working cellularity seems to give hopeful results.

Blood cancer can reoccur and therefore a treatment with stem cells can give more effective results. If Leukemia cannot be treated, doctors try ways of making the patient’s life with cancer easier by relieving the symptoms. About 85% of the children that have survived 5 years without cancer reoccurring are considered to have been cured.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Check Out the Related Article : Leukemia Treatments

Alternative Medicines And Treatment For Leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 10:19:00 +0000

Leukemia is a type of cancer. Cancer is a group of many related diseases. All cancers begin in cells, which make up blood and other tissues. The disease usually starts in the white blood cells.

The blood-forming (hematopoietic) cells of the bone marrow make leukocytes to defend the body against infectious organisms, such as viruses and bacteria. If the cells reach the central nervous system and build up in the cerebrospinal fluid that support s the brain and spinal column, they can cause headaches and seizures. Leukemia often is thought to be a childhood disease. In fact, leukemia strikes 10 times as many adults as children. The American Cancer Society (ACS) predicts that about 35,070 new leukemia cases will be diagnosed in the United States in 2006. Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is the most frequently reported form of leukemia in adults, and approximately 11,930 new cases are anticipated in 2006.

Lymphocytes, which are found in both the blood stream and the lymphatic system, coordinate the immune response and produce antibodies. If untreated, the surplus leukemic cells overwhelm the bone marrow, enter the bloodstream, and eventually invade other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and central nervous system (brain, spinal cord). In this way, the behavior of leukemia is different than that of other cancers, which usually begin in major organs and ultimately spread to the bone marrow

Causes of Leukaemia
The exact cause of leukemia is unknown.

* As with other cancers, smoking is considered a risk factor for leukemia, but many people who develop leukemia have never smoked, and many people who smoke never develop leukemia.
Symptoms
Damage to the bone marrow, by way of displacing the normal bone marrow cells with higher numbers of immature white blood cells, results in a lack of blood platelets, which are important in the blood clotting process. This means people with leukemia may become bruised, bleed excessively, or develop pinprick bleeds (petechiae).

White blood cells, which are involved in fighting pathogens, may be suppressed or dysfunctional. This could cause the patient's immune system (white blood cells etc.) to start attacking other body cells.

Finally, the red blood cell deficiency leads to anemia, which may cause dyspnea. All symptoms can be attributed to other diseases; for diagnosis, blood tests and a bone marrow examination are required.

Alternative Treatment of Leukaemia
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) standardized extract, 250 - 500 mg daily, for antioxidant, anticancer and immune effects. Use caffeine-free products. You may also prepare teas from the leaf of this herb.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum ) seed standardized extract, 80 - 160 mg two to three times daily, for detoxification support.

Acupuncture may alleviate symptoms. Acupuncture may help to enhance immune function, normalize digestion, and address disease conditions. For many patients and physicians, acupuncture has become one of the most widely used alternative interventions in cancer therapy support.

A multivitamin daily, containing the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, the B-complex vitamins and trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and selenium.
L-theanine, 200 mg one to three times daily, for nervous system support.

By: Brain

Check Out the Related Article : Preventing Leukemia

Tests for determining leukemia

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 07:15:00 +0000

The stem cells are formed by the leukemia cells in the bone marrow.These cells have uncontrolled growth and lead to decrease production of normal blood cells.From this point of view the symptoms are:anemia, increased risk of bleeding which include bleeding gums, nosebleeds, bruising, increased risk of infection, slow healing.

The common symptoms of leukemia are:fatigue, lack of appetite, weight loss, fever,sweating.When leukemia arrives to the thymus gland the possible symptoms are:coughing or shortness of breath when the trachea is pressed by the enlarged thymus and swelling of the head and arms (SVC syndrome) when the superior vena cava is pressed by the enlarged thymus.

In the case when the leukemia spreads to the central nervous system there are other possible symptoms like: headaches, poor school performance, weakness, seizures, vomiting, poor balance, blurred vision.Other potential symptoms are: enlargement of the liver and spleen, enlargement of the lymph nodes,enlargement of the testicles and bone or joint pain.

The symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia are gingivitis and rash.The blood tests demanded for the leukemia diagnosis are: low red blood cell count, low platelets count, high white blood cell count, presence of white blood cell blasts.If blood tests shows leukemia presence, additional cells for analysis are obtained from the : bone marrow named bone marrow biopsy, lymph nodes named lymph node excision and cerebrospinal fluid named spinal tap.

To classify leukemia are used the following techniques: microscopic analysis of cell size and shape, cytochemistry-microscopic analysis of cell after treatment with chemicals, immunocytochemistry of flow cytometry-analysis of cells after treatment with laboratory antibodies, cytogenetics-analysis of the chromosomes in leukemia cells and molecular genetics-analysis of specific DNA sequences in leukemia cells.

When a child is diagnosed with leukemia the tests to be performed are the following: a chest x-ray for determine leukemia masses in the chest, bone x-rays for determine leukemia invasion of the bones or joints, a CT Scan for determine leukemia in certain lymph nodes and an MRI for determine leukemia in the brain.After the leukemia has been diagnosed additional tests can give informational about: the type of leukemia, the characteristics of the leukemia cells and its evolution through the body.

Acute lymphocytic leukemia in most cases is present to children and is indicated by two types: high-risk or low-risk.Patients with low-risk respond better to treatment with the possibility of curding, and patients with high-risk respond also to treatment but receive a more intensive treatment.Even if leukemia represents the blood cancer nowadays it can be treated due to the science evolution.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Check Out the Related Article : Preventing Leukemia

Mantle cell lymphoma

noreply@blogger.com (The Dreamer Prince) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 17:12:00 +0000

Examined under the microscope, the Mantle cell lymphoma appears as an expansion of the mantle zone area of the lymph nodes.It is represented by a homogenous population of malignant small lymphoid cells, which are cancerous cells that travel from the bone marrow to the lymph nodes and spleen. They are different from the normal lymphocytes, they are not mature properly. Mantle cell lymphoma is a rare type of Non- hodgkin’s lymphoma.

The lymphocytes are white blood cells produced by the immune system of the human body. Regarding their origin, there are two types of immune cells, the B cells which are made in the bone marrow and the T cells which are made in the thymus. After they are made they are eliminated in the lymph which is a clear liquid that bathes tissues and circulates in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system in the place where occur the cancers known as lymphomas. If the B cells are affected there can be a Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which include follicular lymphomas, small non-cleaved cell lymphomas (Burkitt’s lymphomas), marginal zone lymphomas (MALT lymphomas), small lymphocyte lymphomas, large cell lymphomas. In this category of diseases is included the mantle cell lymphomas too.

At the beginning, the MCL cells develops in limited areas. Regarding this aspect there are three subsets of MCL cells: the mantle zone type, the nodular type and the blastic or immature type. In the most cases these various types develop together and the diagnoses are of mixed mantle and nodular type. During the development of the MCL the non-cancerous mantle centers also become invaded by cancerous cells. In about 20% of these cases, the cells become larger and they are imature ones.

As it is initially slow-growing, this type of cancer it was first believed to be a low-grade cancer, but the average survival rate it was substantially shortened. Because of the mixed nature of MCL cells, specialists tend to give this disease a new classification. The presence of the blastic type of cells is considered as a high-grade cancer because it spreads at about the rate of other lymphomas belonging to that category. It is very important to describe the precise nature of these cells, because this may help specialists involved in the study of MCL to get to an agreement.

Mantle cell lymphoma affects persons with ages between 50 - 70 years and it is diagnosed more frequently in women. This type of cancer has the shortest average survival of all lymphomas.

Nowadays the cause of MCL is unknown. It has many symptoms that appears in other lymphomas too. Patients generally complain of fatigue, low grade fevers, night sweats, weight loss, anemia, rashes, digestive disturbances, chronic sinus irritation, recurrent infections, sore throat, shortness of breath, muscle and bone aches and edema. A more specific symptom is the spleen enlargement. This clinical aspect is present especially in the nodular type of MCL. An early stage is the swollen lymph nodes. At the beginning this has no explanation because the general health of the patient is good. Anemia is another syptom that characterizes MCL, but it is a mild type of anemia. Some patients can also report lower back pain and burning pain in the legs and testicles. In an advanced stage of the MCL the lymph nodes increase in volume, the general health is compromised and the symptoms become more pronounced. In the end stage the MCL spreads to the central nervous system and appear the neurological symptoms.

As MCL is very similar to several other lymphoma types, imunologic tests are recommended for a correct diagnosis. One of this kind of tests is Immunophenotyping which determine what kind of surface molecules are present on cells, and which is the exact type of lymphoma, from a tissue sample.

When the diagnosis is sure it must be known that mantle cell lymphoma has already spread into many other tissues such as the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow or to the ring of adenoid, palatine and lingual tonsils at the back of the mouth or even to the gastrointestinal tract. If the MCL spread to the colon it is diagnosed as multiple lymphomatous polyposis.

The treatment for MCL is established depending on the type of MCL and it stage.

There is no standard treatment for MCL patients. The patients diagnosed with MCL have been treated with surgery, radiation, single drug or combination chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. The most common chemotherapy regimens for treating MCL includes the drugs: Cyclophosphamide (cytoxan, neosar), adriamycin (doxorubicin or Hydroxydoxorubicin), vincristine (Oncovin), and Prednisone and it is called CHOP.

By: Groshan Fabiola

Check Out the Related Article : Preventing Leukemia