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Background |
Lymph system |
Causes |
Symptoms |
Stages |
Diagnosis |
Staging |
Treatment |
New research |
Integrative therapies |
Prevention |
Author information |
Bibliography
AIDS-related lymphoma
Lymphoma describes a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune defense system. This type of cancer may develop when lymphocytes are not produced properly, causing abnormal cells to accumulate either by duplicating faster or living longer than normal. When these abnormal cells accumulate, they displace normal lymphocytes.Cancerous lymphocytes, like healthy lymphocytes, are able to grow in many areas of the body, including the spleen, lymph nodes, bone marrow or blood. Since lymph tissue is found throughout the body, the cancer cells may spread to other organs and tissues.
AIDS-related lymphoma occurs when cancer cells are present in the lymph system of a patients who has AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).
AIDS is caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), which attacks and weakens the immune system. HIV and AIDS patients have an increased risk of developing infections, lymphoma and other types of cancer. In most cases, a person with HIV infection who develops lymphoma is subsequently diagnosed with AIDS. Sometimes people are diagnosed with AIDS and AIDS-related lymphoma at the same time.
AIDS patients can develop either of the two types of lymphoma - Hodgkin's disease lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is more common among AIDS patients. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma affects about 20% of HIV/AIDS patients.
Patients who have AIDS-related lymphoma respond differently to treatment than lymphoma patients who do not have AIDS. This is because AIDS-related lymphoma usually grows faster and spreads more quickly than non-AIDS-related lymphoma.
Treatment of AIDS-related lymphoma combines cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy or high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant) with treatment for AIDS (highly active antiretroviral therapy).
Prognosis and treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the number of CD4 lymphocytes (type of white blood cell), whether the patient has ever had AIDS-related infections, as well as the patient's ability to perform daily activities of living.
Background
Lymphoma describes a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune defense system. This type of cancer may develop when lymphocytes are not produced properly, causing abnormal cells to accumulate either by duplicating faster or living longer than normal. When these abnormal cells accumulate, they displace normal lymphocytes.Cancerous lymphocytes, like healthy lymphocytes, are able to grow in many areas of the body, including the spleen, lymph nodes, bone marrow or blood. Since lymph tissue is found throughout the body, the cancer cells may spread to other organs and tissues.
AIDS-related lymphoma occurs when cancer cells are present in the lymph system of a patients who has AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).
AIDS is caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), which attacks and weakens the immune system. HIV and AIDS patients have an increased risk of developing infections, lymphoma and other types of cancer. In most cases, a person with HIV infection who develops lymphoma is subsequently diagnosed with AIDS. Sometimes people are diagnosed with AIDS and AIDS-related lymphoma at the same time.
AIDS patients can develop either of the two types of lymphoma - Hodgkin's disease lymphoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is more common among AIDS patients. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma affects about 20% of HIV/AIDS patients.
Patients who have AIDS-related lymphoma respond differently to treatment than lymphoma patients who do not have AIDS. This is because AIDS-related lymphoma usually grows faster and spreads more quickly than non-AIDS-related lymphoma.
Treatment of AIDS-related lymphoma combines cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy or high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant) with treatment for AIDS (highly active antiretroviral therapy).
Prognosis and treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the number of CD4 lymphocytes (type of white blood cell), whether the patient has ever had AIDS-related infections, as well as the patient's ability to perform daily activities of living.
Lymph system
Lymph: Lymph is colorless, watery fluid that travels through the lymph system, carrying white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes fight against infections and destroy tumors (abnormal tissue growth).Lymph vessels: The lymph vessels are a network of thin tubes that collect lymph from different body parts and return it to the bloodstream.
Lymph nodes: The lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are located along the lymph vessels throughout the body. Clusters of lymph nodes are located under the arm, as well as near the pelvis, neck, abdomen and groin. The lymph nodes filter the lymph to help fight infection and disease.
Spleen: The spleen is an organ located on the left side of the abdomen. The spleen produces lymphocytes, stores blood cells and destroys old blood cells.
Thymus: The thymus is an organ located in the chest, behind the breastbone. Lymphocytes mature and reproduce in the thymus.
Tonsils: The tonsils are two small masses of lymph tissue at the back of the throat, which produce lymphocytes.
Bone marrow: The bone marrow is soft, spongy tissue in the center of large bones. The bone marrow produces white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets.
Causes
Since HIV and AIDS weaken the body's immune system, individuals who have the disease are susceptible to infections, lymphoma and other types of cancer.The causes of lymphoma are not well known. Several factors have been associated with the cancer, but their exact role in cancer development is unclear. Such factors include age (the risk of developing lymphoma increases with age), infection (like HIV, Epstein-Barr virus or hepatitis), immune disorders (like HIV, ataxia telangiectasia or severe combined immunodeficiency), exposure to toxic chemicals (like pesticides, herbicides or black hair dye) and genetics (family history of the disease).
Symptoms
Common symptoms of AIDS-related lymphoma include painless swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm or groin, as well as fever, night sweats, tiredness, feeling of fullness below the ribs, unintended weight loss and itchy skin.Stages
AIDS-related lymphoma may be classified as "E," for extranodal, or "S," for spleen. If the cancer is extranodal, the cancer is present in an area or organ other than the lymph nodes, or it has spread via lymph vessels to tissues beyond, but close to, the major lymphatic areas. When cancer is described as "S," this means the cancer is present in the spleen.Stage I: Stage I is subdivided into Stage I and Stage IE. Stage I occurs when cancer is present in one lymph node group. Stage IE occurs when cancer is present in an area or organ other than the lymph nodes.
Stage II: Stage II is subdivided into Stage II and Stage IIE. Stage II occurs when cancer is found in two or more lymph node groups on the same side of the diaphragm (muscle below the lungs that aids in breathing). Stage IIE occurs when cancer is present in an area or organ, in addition to the lymph nodes near that area. At this stage, the cancer may have also spread to other lymph node groups on the same side of the diaphragm.
Stage III: Stage III is subdivided into Stage III, Stage IIIE, Stage IIIS or Stage IIIS+E. Stage III occurs when cancer is found in lymph node groups on both sides of the diaphragm. Stage IIIE occurs when cancer is present in lymph node groups on both sides of the diaphragm, as well as in an area or organ other than the lymph nodes. Stage IIIS occurs when cancer is present in lymph node groups on both sides of the diaphragm and in the spleen. Stage IIIS+E occurs when cancer is present in lymph node groups on both sides of the diaphragm, in an area or organ other than the lymph nodes and in the spleen.
Stage IV: During stage IV, cancer is either found throughout one or more organs (other than the lymph nodes) and possibly in lymph nodes nearby, or cancer is present in one organ (other than the lymph nodes), as well as lymph nodes far away from that organ.
Diagnosis
Patients who have HIV or AIDS and experience symptoms of AIDS-related lymphoma, should consult a qualified healthcare provider. A lymph node or bone marrow biopsy is the preferred diagnostic method for AIDS-related lymphoma.Physical exam and history: A qualified healthcare provider will examine the body to check general signs of health. Patients who have AIDS-related lymphoma may have enlarged lymph nodes. A history of the patient's health habits, past illnesses, treatments and family history will also be taken.
Complete blood count (CBC): A complete blood count may be performed to determine the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The test can also determine the amount of hemoglobin (protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. During the procedure a small sample of blood is taken and analyzed under a microscope.
Lymph node biopsy: A lymph node biopsy can be performed to determine whether cancer cells are present. During the procedure, all or part of a lymph node is removed. A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
Bone marrow biopsy: A bone marrow biopsy can be performed to determine whether cancer cells are present. During the procedure, a small piece of bone and bone marrow is removed after inserting a needle into the hipbone or breastbone. Then a pathologist views both the samples under a microscope to look for signs of cancer.
Staging
Once a patient is diagnosed with AIDS-related lymphoma, additional tests are performed to determine whether cancer cells have spread throughout the lymph system or to other parts of the body. This process is called staging. The test results will help the healthcare provider determine the stage of the disease, which is important to plan treatment. In most cases, AIDS-related lymphoma is advanced (cancer cells have spread throughout the body) by the time it is diagnosed.Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A computerized tomography (CT) scan may be performed to detect abnormal tissue growth in the body. The CT scan provides detailed images of the internal organs and tissues. During the procedure, a dye may be injected into the vein or taken orally to help make the organs and tissues more visible.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: A positron emission tomography (PET) scan may be performed to detect malignant (cancerous) tumor cells in the body. A small amount of radioisotope compound is injected into a vein to help make the tissues and organs more visible. The PET scanner rotates around the body and takes a picture of where glucose is being used in the body. Malignant tumor cells appear brighter in the image because they are more active and consume more glucose than normal cells.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test provides a series of detailed pictures of the internal organs and tissues. A substance called gadolinium is injected into the patient through a vein. The gadolinium collects around the cancer cells so they show up brighter in the picture. People with heart pacemakers, metal implants, artificial heart valves and other surgically implanted structures cannot be scanned with an MRI because of the risk that the magnet may move the metal parts of these structures.
Bone marrow biopsy: A bone marrow biopsy may be performed to determine if cancer cells are present. During the procedure, a small piece of bone and bone marrow are removed after inserting a needle into the hipbone or breastbone. Then a pathologist views both the samples under a microscope to look for signs of cancer.
Lumbar puncture: A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). During the procedure, a needle is inserted into the lower back and a small sample of CSF is removed from the spinal column. The sample is then analyzed under a microscope for signs of cancer.
Treatment
General: AIDS-related lymphoma usually grows faster and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body than lymphoma that is not AIDS-related. In general, AIDS-related lymphoma is more difficult to treat.Treatment of AIDS-related lymphoma combines treatment of the lymphoma (chemotherapy, radiation therapy or high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant) with treatment for AIDS (highly active antiretroviral therapy). Patients with AIDS have weakened immune systems and treatment can cause further immunosuppression. Therefore, patients who have AIDS-related lymphoma are usually treated with lower doses of chemotherapy drugs than lymphoma patients who do not have AIDS.
Chemotherapy: During chemotherapy drugs are administered to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or preventing them from multiplying. The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
When chemotherapy is taken orally or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy).
Chemotherapy can also be administered directly to the affected area. When chemotherapy is administered directly into the spinal column it is called intrathecal chemotherapy. Intrathecal chemotherapy is often used in patients who are more likely to have lymphoma in the central nervous system (CNS). When chemotherapy is administered directly into an organ or a body cavity (like the abdomen), it is known as regional chemotherapy.
Combination chemotherapy, which involves more than one anticancer drug, has also been used to treat AIDS-related lymphoma.
Colony-stimulating factors (substances that stimulate the production of blood cells) are sometimes administered with chemotherapy. This treatment may help lessen the side effects chemotherapy may have on the bone marrow.
There are many side effects associated with chemotherapy including, skin rash, temporary alopecia (hair loss), loss of appetite, weight loss, mouth sores, esophagitis (inflamed esophagus), fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. Normal cells usually recover when chemotherapy is over, so most side effects gradually go away after treatment ends, and the healthy cells have a chance to grow normally. Most patients have no serious long-term problems from chemotherapy.
High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant: High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant has been used to treat AIDS-related lymphoma. When high doses of chemotherapy are administered, blood-forming cells are destroyed, and the patient is at risk for experiencing serious side effects of the treatment. However, stem cell (immature blood cells) transplants may be administered to help restore the body's blood cells. During the procedure, stem cells are removed from the blood or bone marrow of the patient or a donor, and they are frozen and stored. After the chemotherapy is completed, the stored stem cells are thawed and given back to the patient via infusion. These re-infused stem cells restore the body's blood cells and help reduce the risk of serious side effects.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy involves high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation, which kills cancer cells. There are two types of radiation therapy - external and internal. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance that is sealed inside needles, seeds, wires or catheters, which are then placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
Side effects of radiation therapy are similar to chemotherapy and may include red or irritated skin, mouth sores, difficulty or soreness swallowing, shortness of breath, temporary alopecia (hair loss), fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Normal cells usually recover when radiation therapy is over, so most side effects gradually go away after treatment ends, and the healthy cells have a chance to grow normally.
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART): When HIV reproduces, different strains of the virus emerge, and some are resistant to antiretroviral drugs. Therefore, it is common for healthcare providers to recommend a combination of antiretroviral drugs known as HAART. This strategy, developed by NIAID-support researchers, usually combines drugs from at least two different classes of antiretroviral drugs, and it has been shown to suppress the virus.
Currently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved 28 antiretroviral drugs to treat HIV infected individuals. These drugs fall into three major classes: reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitors, protease inhibitors and fusion inhibitors. In July 2006, the FDA approved a multi-class combination called Atripla®.
Reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitors: RT inhibitors disrupt the reverse transcription stage in the HIV lifecycle. During this stage, an HIV enzyme, known as reverse transcriptase, converts HIV RNA to HIV DNA. There are two main types of RT inhibitors. Nucleoside/nucleotide RT inhibitors serve as faulty DNA building blocks, and once they are incorporated into the HIV DNA, the DNA chain cannot be completed. Therefore, the drug prevents HIV from replicating inside a cell. Non-nucleoside RT inhibitors bind to reverse transcriptase, preventing HIV from converting the HIV RNA into HIV DNA. Approved antiretroviral include Combivir®, Emtriva®, Epivir®, Epzicom®, Hivid®, Retrovir®, Trizivir®, Truvada®, Videx EC® Videx®, Viread®, Zerit®, Ziagen®, Rescriptor®, Sustiva® and Viramune®.
Protease inhibitors (PI): Protease inhibitors (PIs) interfere with the protease enzyme that HIV uses to produce infectious viral particles. Approved protease inhibitors include Agenerase®, Aptivus®, Crixivan®, Invirase®, Kaletra®, Lexiva®, Norvir®, Prezista®, Reyataz® and Viracept®.
Fusion inhibitors: Fusion inhibitors prevent the virus from fusing with the cellular membrane, thus blocking entry into the cell. Only one fusion inhibitor, Fuzeon®, is FDA-approved.
New research
Monoclonal antibody therapy is currently being tested in clinical trials. This potential cancer treatment uses antibodies produced in a laboratory from a single type of immune system cell. These antibodies can identify differences in surface cell receptors on cancer cells or normal cells, which may help cancer cells grow. The antibodies attach to the receptors unique to the cancer cells, block their growth and ultimately kill the cancer cell. Monoclonal antibodies are administered by infusion. These may be used alone (naked) or they may contain drugs, toxins or radioactive material (conjugated) that is administered to cancer cells. Conjugated antibodies release the cancer-destroying drugs once they bind to the cancer cells.For more information about ongoing clinical trials, please visit http://www.cancer.gov.
Integrative therapies
Good scientific evidence :Psychotherapy : There is good evidence that psychotherapy can enhance cancer patients' quality of life by reducing emotional distress and helping them cope with the stresses and challenges of cancer. Therapy may be supportive-expressive therapy, cognitive therapy or group therapy. Studies conflict on whether therapy improves self-esteem, death, anxiety, self-satisfaction, (etc.). While some patients seek psychotherapy in hopes of extending survival, there is no conclusive evidence of effects on medical prognosis.
Psychotherapy cannot always fix mental or emotional conditions. Psychiatric drugs are sometimes needed. In some cases symptoms may get worse if the proper medication is not taken. Not all therapists are qualified to work with all problems. Use cautiously with serious mental illness or some medical conditions because psychotherapy may stir up strong emotional feelings. Psychotherapy may help with post-partum depression, but is not a substitute for medication that may be needed in severe cases.
Unclear or conflicting scientific evidence :
Acupuncture : There has been limited research on acupuncture for cancer pain, and the research that was done was shown to have mixed results. More studies are needed to determine potential benefits
Aloe vera : There is preliminary evidence that oral aloe may reduce the risk of developing lung cancer. Further studies are needed in this area to clarify if it is aloe itself or other factors that may cause this benefit.
American pawpaw : Pawpaw extract may have some anticancer activity, but additional studies are needed to make a firm recommendation.
Antineoplastons : There is inconclusive scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of antineoplastons in the treatment of cancer. Several preliminary human studies (case series, phase I/II trials) have examined antineoplaston types A2, A5, A10, AS2-1 and AS2-5 for a variety of cancer types. It remains unclear if antineoplastons are effective, or what doses may be safe. Until better research is available, no clear conclusion can be drawn.
Arabinoxylan : Arabinoxylan has been studied in the treatment of various types of cancer. Additional studies are needed in this area.
Aromatherapy : Aromatherapy is often used in cancer and palliative care patients (frequently in combination with massage), with the intention to improve quality of life or well-being. There is not enough scientific evidence in this area to form a firm conclusion about the effectiveness of aromatherapy.
Art therapy : Limited evidence suggests that family caregivers of cancer patients may benefit from art therapy. It has been suggested that art therapy may help them cope with the stress of care giving. Possible benefits include reduced stress, lowered anxiety, increased positive emotions and increased positive communication with cancer patients and healthcare professionals. Art therapy may also reduce pain and other symptoms in cancer patients. More studies are needed to determine how best to use this form of intervention in this population.
Astragalus : Although early laboratory and animal studies report increased immune cell function and reduced cancer cell growth associated with the use of astragalus, there is no reliable human evidence in this area. A recent study reports that astragalus-based Chinese herbal medicine may increase effectiveness of platinum-based chemotherapy when combined with chemotherapy. Due to a lack of well-designed research, a firm conclusion cannot be drawn.
Bee pollen : Bee pollen may reduce some adverse effects of cancer treatment. Additional studies are needed before a firm recommendation can be made.
Bitter melon : MAP30, a protein isolated from bitter melon extract, has been reported to possess anti-cancer effects in a laboratory study. Potential anti-cancer effects have not been studied in humans. Well-designed clinical trials in humans are needed before a recommendation can be made.
Black tea : Several studies have explored a possible association between regular consumption of black tea and rates of cancer in populations. This research has yielded conflicting results, with some studies suggesting benefits, and others reporting no effects. Laboratory and animal studies report that components of tea, such as polyphenols, have antioxidant properties and effects against tumors. However, effects in humans remain unclear, and these components may be more common in green tea rather than in black tea.
Bromelain : There is not enough information to recommend for or against the use of bromelain in the treatment of cancer, either alone or in addition to other therapies.
Cat's claw : Several low-quality studies suggest that cat's claw may slow tumor growth. However, this research is very early and has not identified specific types of cancer that may benefit. More studies are needed before a recommendation can be made.
Chaparral : Chaparral and one of its components called nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) have antioxidant ("free-radical scavenging") properties, and have been proposed as cancer treatments. However, chaparral and NDGA have been associated with cases of kidney and liver failure, liver cirrhosis, kidney cysts, and kidney cancer in humans. In response to these reports, the FDA removed chaparral from its "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) list in 1970. Chaparral and NDGA are generally considered unsafe and are not recommended for use.
Copper : Preliminary research reports that lowering copper levels theoretically may arrest the progression of cancer by inhibiting blood vessel growth (angiogenesis). Copper intake has not been identified as a risk factor for the development or progression of cancer.
Cranberry : Based on a small amount of laboratory research, cranberry has been proposed for cancer prevention. Study is needed in humans before a recommendation can be made.
Dandelion : Limited animal research does not provide a clear assessment of the effects of dandelion on tumor growth. There are no well-conducted human studies currently available in this area.
Echinacea : There is no clear human evidence of the effects of echinacea on any type of cancer.
Essiac® : Currently, there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against the use of this herbal mixture for any type of cancer.
Focusing : Early evidence suggests focusing may improve the mood and body attitude in cancer patients. Firm recommendations cannot be made until well-designed clinical trials are available.
Folate : Preliminary evidence surrounding the use of folate seems promising for decreasing the risk of breast, cervical, pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancer. However, currently there is insufficient evidence available to recommend folate supplementation for any type of cancer prevention or treatment.
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) : Many in vitro and animal studies indicate GLA as a cytotoxic agent or at least as an adjunct agent to a chemotherapy regimen. Few human clinical trials have provided evidence of GLA efficacy on tumor shrinkage or limitation of recurrence, but there is some suggestion that increased dosage may enhance the effect of cytotoxic or hormone receptor agents. Clinical trials have been conducted in treatments of breast, colorectal and liver cancer.
Garlic : Preliminary human studies suggest that regular consumption of garlic (particularly unprocessed garlic) may reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer, including gastric and colorectal malignancies. Some studies use multi-ingredient products, so it is difficult to determine if garlic alone may play a beneficial role. Further well-designed human clinical trials are needed to conclude whether eating garlic or taking garlic supplements may prevent or treat cancer.
Ginseng : A small number of studies report that ginseng taken by mouth may lower the risk of being affected by various cancers, especially if ginseng powder or extract is used. Study results are controversial. Additional trials are necessary before a clear conclusion can be reached.
Green tea : Overall, the relationship of green tea consumption and human cancer remains inconclusive. Evidence from well-designed clinical trials is needed before a firm recommendation can be made in this area.
Healing touch (HT) : Preliminary data suggests that healing touch (HT) may be of benefit in cancer patients for inducing relaxation and improving quality of life. However, due to weaknesses in design and the small number of studies, there is insufficient evidence to make a definitive recommendation. Studies with stronger designs are needed.
Hoxsey formula : There are no well-designed clinical trials that evaluate the effectiveness of Hoxsey formula for the treatment of cancer. More research is necessary before recommendations can be made.
Hydrazine sulfate (HS) : The use of hydrazine sulfate (HS) needs to be evaluated further before any recommendations can be made.
Iodine : Based on the currently available evidence, it is unclear whether iodine can effectively treat cancer.
Lycopene : Further well-designed clinical trials are necessary to determine whether Lycopene can successfully treat cancer.
Maitake mushroom : Early studies in the laboratory, as well as in humans, suggest that beta-glucan extracts from maitake may increase the body's ability to fight cancer. However, these studies have not been well designed, and better research is needed before the use of maitake for cancer can be recommended.
Melatonin : There is not enough definitive scientific evidence to discern if melatonin is beneficial against any type of cancer, whether it increases (or decreases) the effectiveness of other cancer therapies or if it safely reduces chemotherapy side effects.
Mistletoe : Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed before mistletoe can be recommended for cancer treatment or adjuvant therapy.
Prayer, distance healing : Initial studies in patients with cancer (such as leukemia) report variable effects on disease progression or death rates when intercessory prayer is used. Better quality research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.
Reishi mushroom : Reishi has been shown to have antineoplastic and immunomodulatory effects in animal studies. One clinical trial and two case reports exist on advanced cancer patients using Ganopoly®, a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract. Results show improved quality of life and enhanced immune responses, which are typically reduced or damaged in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. It is important to note that this data was published by the same group of authors who are affiliated with the manufacturer of Ganopoly®. Well-designed long-term studies are needed confirm these results and potential side effects.
Seaweed, kelp, bladderwrack : Several brown algae, including bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), appear to suppress the growth of various cancer cells in animal and laboratory studies. However, there currently are no reliable human studies available to support a recommendation for its use in cancer.
Selenium : It remains unclear if selenium is beneficial in the treatment of any type of cancer.
Shark cartilage : Without further evidence from well-designed human trials, it remains unclear if shark cartilage (glucosamine/chondroitin) is of any benefit in cancer. Patients are advised to check with their doctors and pharmacists before taking shark cartilage.
Soy : Until reliable human research is available, it remains unclear if dietary soy or soy isoflavone supplements are beneficial, harmful or neutral in people with various types of cancer.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) : More research is necessary to determine whether transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help reduce pain associated with cancer.
Thiamin (vitamin B1) : Thiamin deficiency has been observed in some cancer patients, possibly due to increased metabolic needs. It is not clear if lowered levels of thiamin in such patients may actually be adaptive (beneficial). Currently, it remains unclear if thiamin supplementation plays a role in the management of any particular type(s) of cancer.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) : TCM uses over 120 different herbs in cancer treatment, depending on the type of cancer and its cause. Studies have reported significant benefits including reduced tumors, reduced treatment side effects and improved response to treatment. More studies of stronger design are needed before TCM can be recommended with confidence as an adjunct to cancer treatment.
Turmeric : Currently, it remains unclear if turmeric or curcumin has a role in preventing or treating human cancers. There are several ongoing studies in this area.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) : Dietary intake of fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C has been associated with a reduced risk of various types of cancer in population studies (particularly cancers of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, colon or lung). However, it is not clear that it is specifically the vitamin C in these foods that is beneficial, and vitamin C supplements have not been found to be associated with this protective effect.
Vitamin E : There is no reliable scientific evidence that vitamin E is effective as a treatment for any specific type of cancer.
Yoga : Several studies in cancer patients report enhanced quality of life, lower sleep disturbance, decreased stress symptoms and changes in cancer-related immune cells after patients received relaxation, meditation and gentle yoga therapy. Yoga is not recommended as a sole treatment for cancer but may be helpful as an adjunct therapy.
Fair negative scientific evidence :
Beta-carotene : While diets high in fruits and vegetables rich in beta-carotene have been shown to potentially reduce the incidence of certain cancers, results from randomized controlled trials with oral supplements do not support this claim.
Hypnosis : Hypnotherapy did not reduce anxiety or improve the quality of life in cancer patients undergoing curative radiotherapy in one study.
Prevention
Since the exact cause of lymphoma is unclear, there is currently no known method of prevention. Many risk factors associated with AIDS-related lymphoma are unavoidable. However, individuals should avoid exposure to toxic chemicals (like pesticides, herbicides or black hair dye) and genetics (family history of the disease).Author information
Natural Standard is an international research collaboration that aggregates and synthesizes data on complementary and alternative therapies. Using a comprehensive methodology and reproducible grading scales, information is created that is evidence-based, consensus-based, and peer-reviewed, tapping into the collective expertise of a multidisciplinary Editorial Board. The mission of this collaboration is to provide objective, reliable information that aids clinicians, patients, and healthcare institutions to make more informed and safer therapeutic decisions. Natural Standard is widely recognized as one of the worlds premier sources of information in this area.Bibliography
James P. Wilmot Cancer Center at Strong. www.stronghealth.com. Accessed March 16, 2007.
Lymphoma Information Network. www.lymphomainfo.net. Accessed March 16, 2007.
National Cancer Institute. www.cancer.gov. Accessed March 16, 2007.
Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. www.naturalstandard.com. Copyright © 2008. Accessed March 16, 2007.
NOAH (New York Online Access to Health). Lymphoma (Aids-Related). www.noah-health.org. Accessed March 16, 2007.
Oncology Channel. www.oncologychannel.com. Accessed March 16, 2007.
Related Terms
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, AIDS, antiretrovirals, autoimmune disease, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity, bone marrow, bone marrow biopsy, cancer, cancerous, CD4 cells, chemotherapy, Epstein-Barr virus, HAART, hepatitis, highly active antiretroviral therapy, high-dose chemotherapy, HIV, Hodgkin's disease, human immunodeficiency virus, immune defense system, immune system, immunocompromised, immunodeficiency, infections, leukocytes, lymph, lymph nodes, lymph node biopsy, lymphatic system, lymphoma, lymphocytes, lymph vessels, malignant, malignancy, non-Hodgkin's disease, oncologist, oncology, opportunistic infections, radiation therapy, retrovirus, sexually transmitted disease, spleen, STD, stem cell transplant, thymus, tonsils, tumor, virus, white blood cells.
Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intendedfor informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
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