The Causes and Treatment Of Bunions
One of the most common foot conditions causing pain is found near the big toe joint. This pain is worsened in shoes, and sometimes may even be present when walking barefoot.' The big toe is shifted over toward (or even over or under) the second toe, and there is a bump or enlargement of bone on the side of the foot.' This condition is called a bunion, and symptoms can run a range from no pain, simple discomfort, to severe pain.''The medical name is hallux abductovalgus, which describes the way the great toe angles and rotates over towards the second toe. The size of the bunion is not always the more significant medical finding, as some people have severe bunions which cause no pain at all, and some people have small bunions which are so painful they can hardly wear shoes. 'This type of foot pain can be sharp, throbbing, aching, or even burning. 'Most people with this condition have pain directly against the side of the foot at the prominent joint (the bump of bone). 'It can also be felt along the big toe, or underneath the ball of the foot near the joint. 'This pain usually is much worse when in tight shoes, although in advanced cases pain is felt whenever walking at all, shoes or not. ' Even bending the toe passively can cause discomfort in those cases. 'Burning or tingling and numbness can be felt if the bunion stretches the nerve that runs along side it. People of all ages can have bunions, as it is also seen in kids.''It is a misconception that only older people get bunions, and the presence of bunions is certainly not a sign of aging, as some people are simply born with them.
Bunions are a complex foot deformity of both bone and the soft tissue that attaches to the bone.' Popular opinion not withstanding, bunions are NOT caused by tight shoe use.' One's feet have not been 'moldable' since early childhood, and a tight shoe will not alter the position of one's bones.' However, a tight shoe can aggravate a bunion, and a previously non-painful bunion can suddenly become painful.' This develops as inflammation sets into the tissues surrounding the great toe joint. Shoe pressure can aggravate the tissues on the side of the foot to produce this pressure. Bunions are usually inherited from one's parents or grandparents and have several underlying causes.' The most common cause is flat feet.' Over time, muscular changes needed to adapt to walking with flat feet will contract the great toe towards the second toe, and make prominent the 1st metatarsal head (bone) on the inside of the foot. Joint pain in the great toe can develop over time due to its abnormal position and eventually arthritis will develop.' The great toe can also crowd into the other toes, causing it to over or underlap the second toe.' Other causes for bunions could include injury to the bone or big toe joint, or birth deformities which alter the position of the bone from the start of growth.
Treatment options are somewhat limited, in the sense that surgery is usually required.' Non-surgical measures that attempt to pad the bump or separate the great toe from the second toe can be attempted with varying success.' These techniques change the amount of pressure on the great toe and its relationship with the second toe, although the introduction of more padding can make shoe fit difficult at times. Wider shoes may also help relieve bump pain.' When there is less pressure from the shoe, the bunion does not get as irritated. Women's dress style shoes in particular are well known for aggravating this condition due to their narrow fit, and a simple change in shoe styles may help. For some, this may be all that is necessary. Unfortunately, changing to wider shoes will do nothing for any arthritis that has developed in the joint, and in later stages will be ineffective in treating a significantly painful bunion. Orthotics (prescription shoe inserts) may help to lessen the worsening of the bunion by controlling it's underlying cause (usually flat feet), but cannot alter the bunion already developed.
In most cases, surgery with correction of the bone position and soft tissue contracture is necessary to permanently treat this condition.' Many different techniques have been developed for this procedure, all dependent on the degree of the bone deformity and the needs of the patient.' Different surgeons prefer different procedures, but all accomplish the same thing in correcting the bunion.' In general, the procedures are designed to cut the long bone (1st metatarsal) at some point along its length, usually the far end (head) if the bunion is moderate or the end near the middle of the foot (base) if the bunion is severe. The bone piece cut is then moved over to lessen the distance between long bone of the bunion and the long bone behind the second toe, which is widened in a bunion. By shifting the 1st metatarsal over, the bunion width is reduced and the great toe can be repositioned into a straightened position with a little tweaking of the soft tissue that attaches to it. The cut piece is then secured with a wire, screw, or plate so it may heal. Screws and plates will remain in the foot painlessly, while wires can be pulled out painlessly. Simply shaving the 'bump' will accomplish little, as the bump will return shortly after surgery (within a few years). This shaving can be done as a quick procedure in the elderly or those at risk for surgical complications, keeping in mind it will not likely be permanent. Bunion surgery in general is extremely common, with a low risk of complications and a relatively speedy recovery if the surgeon's complete post-operative instructions are followed correctly.' Most patients can fully recover from this surgery within two months, and most only experience discomfort requiring pain control for a week or less following the surgery. 'The common perception of recovery from bunion surgery being incredibly painful is not true unless one is too active following the surgery and ignores their surgeon's instructions for home care. If the base of the bone has to be addressed in a severe or very unstable bunion, then non-weightbearing in a cast and crutches is necessary for six to eight weeks, as that part of the bone is more unstable and needs to be protected better while the bone heals. Otherwise, recovery using a walking boot with protected weight-bearing is common, and the bone should be healed in six weeks. It is important to follow one's instructions from the surgeon during the recovery period, as any deviation from those instructions, especially with regard to weightbearing, could result in poor healing and pain. Of interesting side note is the fact that there are new devices out there that look like little leg carts on wheels with handlebars and brakes. These are used as a replacement to crutches, and one simply scoots along on them. Numerous brand names exist, including Roll-A-Bout. These devices do make keeping non-weightbearing easier, and are preferred to crutches in the case of those with shoulder weakness or pain.
All things considered, not all bunions require correction, especially if they are not causing pain or shoe discomfort. 'However, most bunions will eventually cause symptoms, and if delayed treatment may require more aggressive surgery to fix severe deformities, including possible joint implants if the joint develops arthritis. 'Another factor to consider is our decreasing ability to heal from this surgery quickly as we age and become less healthy. It is best to have bunions evaluated to determine the proper treatment course, and to improve one's comfort efficiently and permanently.
------
Dr. Kilberg provides compassionate and complete foot and ankle care to adults and children in the Indianapolis area. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. He enjoys providing comprehensive foot health information to the online community to help the public better understand their feet. Visit his practice website at http://www.inpodiatrygroup.com
Kamis, 28 Juli 2011
Notable People Who Have Died from Mesothelioma and Those Still Fighting For a Cure
Notable People Who Have Died from Mesothelioma and Those Still Fighting For a Cure
There is no easy way to cope with mesothelioma. Even before the diagnosis, the disease is undeniably devastating. As if the disease itself is not bad enough, it frequently occurs on top of asbestosis and other asbestos related diseases. Any man or woman living with the disease should rightfully be considered a hero.
But even amongst this group, some stand out as pioneers. Some fight for the rights of workers harmed by companies who put profits above human life, pushing to expand their bottom line by hiding the damage asbestos exposure can have on health. Others are helping people survive and live as happy a life as possible through summer camps for children and support groups. Many are pushing for mesothelioma treatments and a cure, testing the limits of life lived with the disease. This article is dedicated to all those who inspire and all those who seek newer and better mesothelioma treatments.
Devastating Disease
The first signs may seem innocuous, nothing more sinister than a cough and shortness of breath. But over time, an uncomfortable pain and pressure will develop in the chest, leading to further complications that eventually turn fatal. These symptoms may seem like a lung disorder, but are actually the result of peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of cancer whose tumors grow in the mesothelium, the lining around vital organs. Peritoneal occurs in the mesothelium surrounding the lungs, by far the most common.
So far, treatment options for this disease are very limited. Drugs have only a slight effect and cannot cure it. Operations have been more successful, but the mesothelium can be difficult to reach and can be difficult to determine if all tumors have been removed. Even if all are successfully excised, the cancer may still return, infecting other parts of the body and spreading further. Yet there is hope, as is proven by those who live with the disease. Mesothelioma treatment can work, prolonging life and increasing precious time.
Strong Fighter: Steven Jay Gould
In July 1982, prominent paleontologist and outspoken civil advocate Steven Jay Gould was diagnosed with mesothelioma of the stomach lining and given eight months to live. But Mr. Gould refused to accept the terminal sentence and instead started writing a column entitled "The Median Isn't the Message." He noted that eight months was only an average, the lifespan of 50% of patients after diagnosis. Treatment could make that number vary, he argued. Determination, age, and early detection would also be factors. He could live longer -- much longer -- than the eight months his doctor had originally given him.
Ultimately, Mr. Gould was correct. Through an aggressive mesothelioma treatment regimen, he was able to drive the cancer back. His column also became a source of hope for many undergoing cancer treatment. Mr. Gould ultimately lived another 20 years before finally passing away as a result of metastatic adenocarcenoma of the lung. The lung cancer had spread to his brain, eventually becoming terminal. He died on May 20, 2002 and the cause of death was completely unrelated to mesothelioma.
Paul Kraus: No Treatment, but a Strong Will
Born in Austria, Mr. Kraus migrated to Australia while very young. He took a factory job cutting asbestos sheets, exposing himself to the dangerous fibers over a period of years. He was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 1997 and given eight months to live.
But Mr. Kraus did not accept the short term. Yet, neither did he accept the treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. He feared they would simply impact the quality of his remaining time without adding significantly to the number of days he had left. Mr. Kraus denied conventional medical treatment and instead began his own regimen consisting of numerous vitamins, traditional Chinese medicine, and a strict diet.
Mr. Kraus continues his regimen to this day and enjoys a good life with no major signs of his illness. He has written several books, including one based on his experiences dealing with the cancer.
Fighting On
Although Mr. Kraus chose not to have conventional medical treatment, he reviewed all his options. Mr. Gould is living a long, happy life thanks to lifesaving care with radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. If you suspect that you may have mesothelioma, treatment should be mandatory - not optional - unless you are certain that you understand the risks. Don't delay, ask a physician about mesothelioma treatment first and make choices later.
There is no easy way to cope with mesothelioma. Even before the diagnosis, the disease is undeniably devastating. As if the disease itself is not bad enough, it frequently occurs on top of asbestosis and other asbestos related diseases. Any man or woman living with the disease should rightfully be considered a hero.
But even amongst this group, some stand out as pioneers. Some fight for the rights of workers harmed by companies who put profits above human life, pushing to expand their bottom line by hiding the damage asbestos exposure can have on health. Others are helping people survive and live as happy a life as possible through summer camps for children and support groups. Many are pushing for mesothelioma treatments and a cure, testing the limits of life lived with the disease. This article is dedicated to all those who inspire and all those who seek newer and better mesothelioma treatments.
Devastating Disease
The first signs may seem innocuous, nothing more sinister than a cough and shortness of breath. But over time, an uncomfortable pain and pressure will develop in the chest, leading to further complications that eventually turn fatal. These symptoms may seem like a lung disorder, but are actually the result of peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of cancer whose tumors grow in the mesothelium, the lining around vital organs. Peritoneal occurs in the mesothelium surrounding the lungs, by far the most common.
So far, treatment options for this disease are very limited. Drugs have only a slight effect and cannot cure it. Operations have been more successful, but the mesothelium can be difficult to reach and can be difficult to determine if all tumors have been removed. Even if all are successfully excised, the cancer may still return, infecting other parts of the body and spreading further. Yet there is hope, as is proven by those who live with the disease. Mesothelioma treatment can work, prolonging life and increasing precious time.
Strong Fighter: Steven Jay Gould
In July 1982, prominent paleontologist and outspoken civil advocate Steven Jay Gould was diagnosed with mesothelioma of the stomach lining and given eight months to live. But Mr. Gould refused to accept the terminal sentence and instead started writing a column entitled "The Median Isn't the Message." He noted that eight months was only an average, the lifespan of 50% of patients after diagnosis. Treatment could make that number vary, he argued. Determination, age, and early detection would also be factors. He could live longer -- much longer -- than the eight months his doctor had originally given him.
Ultimately, Mr. Gould was correct. Through an aggressive mesothelioma treatment regimen, he was able to drive the cancer back. His column also became a source of hope for many undergoing cancer treatment. Mr. Gould ultimately lived another 20 years before finally passing away as a result of metastatic adenocarcenoma of the lung. The lung cancer had spread to his brain, eventually becoming terminal. He died on May 20, 2002 and the cause of death was completely unrelated to mesothelioma.
Paul Kraus: No Treatment, but a Strong Will
Born in Austria, Mr. Kraus migrated to Australia while very young. He took a factory job cutting asbestos sheets, exposing himself to the dangerous fibers over a period of years. He was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 1997 and given eight months to live.
But Mr. Kraus did not accept the short term. Yet, neither did he accept the treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. He feared they would simply impact the quality of his remaining time without adding significantly to the number of days he had left. Mr. Kraus denied conventional medical treatment and instead began his own regimen consisting of numerous vitamins, traditional Chinese medicine, and a strict diet.
Mr. Kraus continues his regimen to this day and enjoys a good life with no major signs of his illness. He has written several books, including one based on his experiences dealing with the cancer.
Fighting On
Although Mr. Kraus chose not to have conventional medical treatment, he reviewed all his options. Mr. Gould is living a long, happy life thanks to lifesaving care with radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. If you suspect that you may have mesothelioma, treatment should be mandatory - not optional - unless you are certain that you understand the risks. Don't delay, ask a physician about mesothelioma treatment first and make choices later.
New Mesothelioma Treatment
New Mesothelioma Treatment
Significant progress has been made in the early cancer detection and treatment options but still there are cancers, such as Mesothelioma, that are not easy to treat. Since 2006, scientists have learned quite a bit about the differences between normal cells and cancer cells. They are working overtime to come up with drugs that can treat mesothelioma without causing any side effects. Angiogenesis drugs are promising treatments that have no side effects attached and target the tumor rather than the normal cells of the body.
Immunotherapy and Mesothelioma
Commonly known as biological therapy, immunotherapy uses the immune system of the body to protect it against disease. Scientists have come to the conclusion that the immune system can distinguish between cancer cells and healthy cells and it can get rid of cancerous cells. The main objective of immunotherapy is to repair and increase the natural anticancer function of the immune system. Substances employed in immunotherapy are known as biological response modifiers. With biological response modifiers, you will find that your body can fight disease much better.
There are plenty of biological response modifiers such as antibodies and cytokines that occur naturally in the body. However, with advancements in technology, scientists are making biological response modifiers in the laboratory that can imitate natural immune response agents. These biological response modifiers increase the immune system so cancer cell growth can be reduced. They also create cancer cells that can be easily destroyed by the immune system.
Photodynamic Therapy for Mesothelioma
Photodynamic therapy is a treatment set on the basis of the “single-celled organisms” concept. The main function of photodynamic therapy is to get rid of the cancerous cells using fixed frequency light. By using fixed frequency light, photosensitizing drugs are activated. Generally, photosensitizing drugs are accumulated in body tissues.
In photodynamic therapy, a photosensitizing drug is administered intravenously. Within two or three days, photosensitizing drugs selectively focus on diseased cells while avoiding normal cells. After this, the treated cancer cells are exposed to a laser light directed on the cancer site using a fiber-optic device which allows manipulation of the laser light.
The major side effect associated with photodynamic therapy is skin sensitivity. If you are undergoing photodynamic therapy, you must avoid direct sunlight for a period of one month. Other side effects of photodynamic therapy are nausea, eye sensitivity to light, vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Other Therapies for Mesothelioma Patients
Gene Therapy treats the disease at the DNA level. For individuals with abnormal genes, this therapy can be quite useful.
Replacement Gene Therapy where a missing gene is substituted. The p53 gene is often the main target for gene substitution.
Knockout Gene Therapy the emphasis is on the oncogenes products (cancer causing genes) that are responsible for tumor formation.
Significant progress has been made in the early cancer detection and treatment options but still there are cancers, such as Mesothelioma, that are not easy to treat. Since 2006, scientists have learned quite a bit about the differences between normal cells and cancer cells. They are working overtime to come up with drugs that can treat mesothelioma without causing any side effects. Angiogenesis drugs are promising treatments that have no side effects attached and target the tumor rather than the normal cells of the body.
Immunotherapy and Mesothelioma
Commonly known as biological therapy, immunotherapy uses the immune system of the body to protect it against disease. Scientists have come to the conclusion that the immune system can distinguish between cancer cells and healthy cells and it can get rid of cancerous cells. The main objective of immunotherapy is to repair and increase the natural anticancer function of the immune system. Substances employed in immunotherapy are known as biological response modifiers. With biological response modifiers, you will find that your body can fight disease much better.
There are plenty of biological response modifiers such as antibodies and cytokines that occur naturally in the body. However, with advancements in technology, scientists are making biological response modifiers in the laboratory that can imitate natural immune response agents. These biological response modifiers increase the immune system so cancer cell growth can be reduced. They also create cancer cells that can be easily destroyed by the immune system.
Photodynamic Therapy for Mesothelioma
Photodynamic therapy is a treatment set on the basis of the “single-celled organisms” concept. The main function of photodynamic therapy is to get rid of the cancerous cells using fixed frequency light. By using fixed frequency light, photosensitizing drugs are activated. Generally, photosensitizing drugs are accumulated in body tissues.
In photodynamic therapy, a photosensitizing drug is administered intravenously. Within two or three days, photosensitizing drugs selectively focus on diseased cells while avoiding normal cells. After this, the treated cancer cells are exposed to a laser light directed on the cancer site using a fiber-optic device which allows manipulation of the laser light.
The major side effect associated with photodynamic therapy is skin sensitivity. If you are undergoing photodynamic therapy, you must avoid direct sunlight for a period of one month. Other side effects of photodynamic therapy are nausea, eye sensitivity to light, vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Other Therapies for Mesothelioma Patients
Gene Therapy treats the disease at the DNA level. For individuals with abnormal genes, this therapy can be quite useful.
Replacement Gene Therapy where a missing gene is substituted. The p53 gene is often the main target for gene substitution.
Knockout Gene Therapy the emphasis is on the oncogenes products (cancer causing genes) that are responsible for tumor formation.
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lungs. In addition to affecting the lungs, it can also result in complications that affect the heart and the abdomen. Every year, there are as many as 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, and with the exception of benign mesothelioma all forms of the disease are terminal. There is no cure.
Patients who are diagnosed with the disease are expected to survive for less than a year in most cases, although there are other factors that can change the life expectancy of the patient.
Causes of Mesothelioma
This terminal cancer is often caused by exposure to asbestos which is inhaled or otherwise ingested. This leads to inflammation and infection. Asbestos is a naturally occurring but dangerous fiber that was often used by a large number of industries throughout the twentieth century. The dangers of asbestos become well known in the seventies, leading to a decline in its use. Unfortunately, it is still found in some buildings. More than thirty percent of the people who suffer from mesothelioma are veterans.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are five different types of mesothelioma that the medical world is aware of. One of them is benign, but the following four are terminal diseases.
Pleural Mesothelioma: This is the most common form of the disease, affecting seventy five percent of the people who are diagnosed with the disease. It forms in the lining of the lungs, which is referred to in the medical world as pleura.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Twenty percent of people who suffer from the disease suffer from this variant. Rather than in the lungs, this forms in the lining of the abdomen. This lining is known as the peritoneal membrane.
Pericardial Mesothelioma: Affecting about five percent of the people with the disease, this cancer develops inside the lining of the heart, which is known as the pericardium.
Testicular Mesothelioma: This is an extremely rare form of the disease, and occurs in the testicles of men.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma does not show any signs of occurrence until two to five decades after a patient was exposed to asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma are often easy to confuse with the symptoms of much less dangerous diseases. Some of the most common symptoms are lung issues. These include chest pain, a cough that does not go away, and shortness of breath. Lumps may also develop under the skin and chest. Patients may also feel abdominal pain and nausea, they may lose weight, and they may have bowel issues. Patients may also feel heart palpitations, have difficulty breathing, and suffer from night sweats.
Mesothelioma Treatment
A patient who has been found to show all of the symptoms of mesothelioma and has been diagnosed as such will then go on to receive treatment for the disease. There are a number of different types of treatment available for this disease. Among the options that are available are surgery and chemotherapy. Another option is radiation therapy. Many patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are given more than one of these treatments this is referred to as multimodality therapy. By combining more than one of these effective, rigorous treatments, it is possible to approach a solution to the cancer from various angles. This improves upon the life expectancy of the patient so that they are much more likely to survive the disease.
In addition to these options, there are also some more experimental procedures. Among these options are photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, these options are still in the experimental phase, with little knowledge as to their effectiveness. For this reason they are typically only available to patients as part of a clinical trial.
Some of the more recent clinical trials conducted on photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy have shown results that are positive enough to suggest that further research is a good idea. Patients who agree to take part in a clinical trial are not only exposing themselves to treatments that may be beneficial; they are also providing researchers with the information that they need to develop new treatments and possibly cures for people who are suffering from mesothelioma in the present and future.
http://entot.info
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lungs. In addition to affecting the lungs, it can also result in complications that affect the heart and the abdomen. Every year, there are as many as 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, and with the exception of benign mesothelioma all forms of the disease are terminal. There is no cure.
Patients who are diagnosed with the disease are expected to survive for less than a year in most cases, although there are other factors that can change the life expectancy of the patient.
Causes of Mesothelioma
This terminal cancer is often caused by exposure to asbestos which is inhaled or otherwise ingested. This leads to inflammation and infection. Asbestos is a naturally occurring but dangerous fiber that was often used by a large number of industries throughout the twentieth century. The dangers of asbestos become well known in the seventies, leading to a decline in its use. Unfortunately, it is still found in some buildings. More than thirty percent of the people who suffer from mesothelioma are veterans.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are five different types of mesothelioma that the medical world is aware of. One of them is benign, but the following four are terminal diseases.
Pleural Mesothelioma: This is the most common form of the disease, affecting seventy five percent of the people who are diagnosed with the disease. It forms in the lining of the lungs, which is referred to in the medical world as pleura.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Twenty percent of people who suffer from the disease suffer from this variant. Rather than in the lungs, this forms in the lining of the abdomen. This lining is known as the peritoneal membrane.
Pericardial Mesothelioma: Affecting about five percent of the people with the disease, this cancer develops inside the lining of the heart, which is known as the pericardium.
Testicular Mesothelioma: This is an extremely rare form of the disease, and occurs in the testicles of men.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma does not show any signs of occurrence until two to five decades after a patient was exposed to asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma are often easy to confuse with the symptoms of much less dangerous diseases. Some of the most common symptoms are lung issues. These include chest pain, a cough that does not go away, and shortness of breath. Lumps may also develop under the skin and chest. Patients may also feel abdominal pain and nausea, they may lose weight, and they may have bowel issues. Patients may also feel heart palpitations, have difficulty breathing, and suffer from night sweats.
Mesothelioma Treatment
A patient who has been found to show all of the symptoms of mesothelioma and has been diagnosed as such will then go on to receive treatment for the disease. There are a number of different types of treatment available for this disease. Among the options that are available are surgery and chemotherapy. Another option is radiation therapy. Many patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are given more than one of these treatments this is referred to as multimodality therapy. By combining more than one of these effective, rigorous treatments, it is possible to approach a solution to the cancer from various angles. This improves upon the life expectancy of the patient so that they are much more likely to survive the disease.
In addition to these options, there are also some more experimental procedures. Among these options are photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, these options are still in the experimental phase, with little knowledge as to their effectiveness. For this reason they are typically only available to patients as part of a clinical trial.
Some of the more recent clinical trials conducted on photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy have shown results that are positive enough to suggest that further research is a good idea. Patients who agree to take part in a clinical trial are not only exposing themselves to treatments that may be beneficial; they are also providing researchers with the information that they need to develop new treatments and possibly cures for people who are suffering from mesothelioma in the present and future.
http://entot.info
Mesothelioma Treatment-A basic explanation
Mesothelioma Treatment-A basic explanation
Mesothelioma is an uncommon type of cancer that affects the lining cover of mainly the lungs and abdomen.
There are two types of surgeries for mesothelioma treatments,
Aggressive Surgery and Palliative Procedures. Before performing any
surgery, it is necessary to check whether the heart and lungs are
functioning properly. Of the two types, aggressive surgery, also known
as Pneumonectomy, is complicated surgery performed on younger patients,
who are good in health and can bear the surgery. Pneumonectomy involves
the removal of extra pleural membrane and a lung. The main purpose of
this surgical treatment is to physically remove as much tumor as
possible.
Palliative procedures of mesothelioma treatment are known as
Pleurectomy. It is done in the early stages of cancer. This process of
treatment involves surgical removal of pleura. However, the procedures
are involved to lessen and control the symptoms rather than to cure the
disease. This surgery reduces the pain caused by the tumor mass and
helps in preventing the recurrence of pleural effusion. Complete
removal of tumor is not possible with this procedure.
Chemotherapy is a form of treatment method that makes combined use of
certain drugs for shrinking the tumor. Though some patients show only
partial success to this method, some combination's of chemotherapy drugs
have proved successful. Scientists have developed some new chemotherapy
drugs for treating the cancer.
Radiotherapy makes use of nuclear radiations to try and selectively
kill the cancerous cells and shrinkdebulk the tumor. This radiation
can however also destroy the surrounding normal tissues of the heart,
lungs and other nearby organs.
Most often a combination therapy is employed in the treatment of the
disease. This involves the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and
surgery together. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used to kill any
remaining tumor cells left after the surgery and the combination
therapy helps to relieve symptoms like pain.
Mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive and the victim can file
lawsuits to get compensation and settlements to pay for medical
expenses, loss of income, lost earning capacity, pain and sufferings.
The mesothelioma victim will often need to seek the services of a
competent asbestos attorney to be able to secure their deserved
compensations from the industries/companies responsible for exposing
them to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is an uncommon type of cancer that affects the lining cover of mainly the lungs and abdomen.
There are two types of surgeries for mesothelioma treatments,
Aggressive Surgery and Palliative Procedures. Before performing any
surgery, it is necessary to check whether the heart and lungs are
functioning properly. Of the two types, aggressive surgery, also known
as Pneumonectomy, is complicated surgery performed on younger patients,
who are good in health and can bear the surgery. Pneumonectomy involves
the removal of extra pleural membrane and a lung. The main purpose of
this surgical treatment is to physically remove as much tumor as
possible.
Palliative procedures of mesothelioma treatment are known as
Pleurectomy. It is done in the early stages of cancer. This process of
treatment involves surgical removal of pleura. However, the procedures
are involved to lessen and control the symptoms rather than to cure the
disease. This surgery reduces the pain caused by the tumor mass and
helps in preventing the recurrence of pleural effusion. Complete
removal of tumor is not possible with this procedure.
Chemotherapy is a form of treatment method that makes combined use of
certain drugs for shrinking the tumor. Though some patients show only
partial success to this method, some combination's of chemotherapy drugs
have proved successful. Scientists have developed some new chemotherapy
drugs for treating the cancer.
Radiotherapy makes use of nuclear radiations to try and selectively
kill the cancerous cells and shrinkdebulk the tumor. This radiation
can however also destroy the surrounding normal tissues of the heart,
lungs and other nearby organs.
Most often a combination therapy is employed in the treatment of the
disease. This involves the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and
surgery together. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used to kill any
remaining tumor cells left after the surgery and the combination
therapy helps to relieve symptoms like pain.
Mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive and the victim can file
lawsuits to get compensation and settlements to pay for medical
expenses, loss of income, lost earning capacity, pain and sufferings.
The mesothelioma victim will often need to seek the services of a
competent asbestos attorney to be able to secure their deserved
compensations from the industries/companies responsible for exposing
them to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Treatment-6 Holistic methods of treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment-6 Holistic methods of treatment
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Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Of late, there are several new mesothelioma treatments are being developed. This give rise to new hopes for more mesothelioma treatment options for victims of this disease.
Research is mostly revolving around developing new treatments or improving upon the past traditional treatments. It is very encouraging for mesothelioma patients as new chemotherapy agents and combinations of agents have been showing improved results.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the new mesothelioma treatment options being looked into. It is based on the theory that single celled organisms die when exposed to certain frequency of light. In order for this to happen in this treatment, certain photosensitive drugs are administered intravenously into the patient. Normally, over a few days, the drug will zoom in and concentrate on the diseased cells and destroy it. There are however, some side effects such as skin sensitivity, nausea and vomiting.
Another treatment option is Immunotherapy, which is sometimes known as biological therapy. In this treatment method, the immune system of the patient's body is used to treat and fight off the disease. When struck by mesothelioma, the patients body's ability to treat itself might be hampered due to the disease.
The Immunotherapy treatment will then try to rejuvenate the patients' immune system and thereby, improving the patients natural immune system which is the most effective way to combat any disease. This therapy will also try to repair the immune systems in areas where they are faulty. A naturally occuring substance called, Biological response modifiers (BRMs) are what is used in immunotherapy. Although BRMs naturally occur in the body research has proven that it can now be prepared in laboratory and is found to be just as effective as the natural BRMs.
Another new mesothelioma treatment option that has been developed is the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). IMRT is a new treatment used to enhance localized control of mesothelioma. In this therapy, researchers have found a way for radiation doses to be administered to the tumor without causing undue damage to nearby normal, healthy cells.
Treatment at the DNA level is also another important breakthrough that researchers have made. In Gene Therapy, doctors will try to correct or replace the abnormal or damaged genes. The two main types of Gene Therapy most commonly used today are Replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy therapy. In replacement gene therapy the mutated or missing gene which causes the mesothelioma is replaced whereas in knockout gene therapy, the gene responsible for creating the tumor is completely eliminated. With more research being done in gene therapy today, much more information regarding genes are being unfolded constantly.As such, gene therapy treatments holds the highest promise of the future in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Other forms of treatments which use some combinations of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, sometimes called multimodality therapy, are also currently being researched.
Last but not least, Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy combined with the use of a pemetrexed drug, brand named Alimta, are some of the new developments in the treatment of mesothelioma.
With research going on in some many spheres from Gene Therapy, Biologicals as well as combinational treatments, the outlook for mesothelioma treatment options looks to be bright and expanding.Ben is an accomplished online publisher with many websites setup dealing with a variety of issues. Check out his latest site on Mesothelioma Treatment Options and also the article on Dealing With Abestos At Home
Of late, there are several new mesothelioma treatments are being developed. This give rise to new hopes for more mesothelioma treatment options for victims of this disease.
Research is mostly revolving around developing new treatments or improving upon the past traditional treatments. It is very encouraging for mesothelioma patients as new chemotherapy agents and combinations of agents have been showing improved results.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the new mesothelioma treatment options being looked into. It is based on the theory that single celled organisms die when exposed to certain frequency of light. In order for this to happen in this treatment, certain photosensitive drugs are administered intravenously into the patient. Normally, over a few days, the drug will zoom in and concentrate on the diseased cells and destroy it. There are however, some side effects such as skin sensitivity, nausea and vomiting.
Another treatment option is Immunotherapy, which is sometimes known as biological therapy. In this treatment method, the immune system of the patient's body is used to treat and fight off the disease. When struck by mesothelioma, the patients body's ability to treat itself might be hampered due to the disease.
The Immunotherapy treatment will then try to rejuvenate the patients' immune system and thereby, improving the patients natural immune system which is the most effective way to combat any disease. This therapy will also try to repair the immune systems in areas where they are faulty. A naturally occuring substance called, Biological response modifiers (BRMs) are what is used in immunotherapy. Although BRMs naturally occur in the body research has proven that it can now be prepared in laboratory and is found to be just as effective as the natural BRMs.
Another new mesothelioma treatment option that has been developed is the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). IMRT is a new treatment used to enhance localized control of mesothelioma. In this therapy, researchers have found a way for radiation doses to be administered to the tumor without causing undue damage to nearby normal, healthy cells.
Treatment at the DNA level is also another important breakthrough that researchers have made. In Gene Therapy, doctors will try to correct or replace the abnormal or damaged genes. The two main types of Gene Therapy most commonly used today are Replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy therapy. In replacement gene therapy the mutated or missing gene which causes the mesothelioma is replaced whereas in knockout gene therapy, the gene responsible for creating the tumor is completely eliminated. With more research being done in gene therapy today, much more information regarding genes are being unfolded constantly.As such, gene therapy treatments holds the highest promise of the future in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Other forms of treatments which use some combinations of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, sometimes called multimodality therapy, are also currently being researched.
Last but not least, Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy combined with the use of a pemetrexed drug, brand named Alimta, are some of the new developments in the treatment of mesothelioma.
With research going on in some many spheres from Gene Therapy, Biologicals as well as combinational treatments, the outlook for mesothelioma treatment options looks to be bright and expanding.Ben is an accomplished online publisher with many websites setup dealing with a variety of issues. Check out his latest site on Mesothelioma Treatment Options and also the article on Dealing With Abestos At Home
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