 |
|
UK researchers raise hopes of preserving fertility for women with cancer
September 23, 2001UK fertility experts have sounded a note of cautious optimism about the safety of preserving ovarian tissue and transplanting it back into women after cancer treatment.
The optimism follows research reported today (Thursday 27 September) in Human Reproduction*, Europe's leading journal of reproductive medicine. It is the first reported non-test tube investigation in the world on the safety of grafting ovarian tissue from cancer patients.
Women are often rendered infertile after drug or radiation treatment for cancer and scientists have for a long time been looking at ways to make it possible for women to have babies after they have recovered from treatment.
For those who have no partner, young girls, or women who require immediate treatment, embryo freezing is not feasible.
But another option - preserving ovarian tissue before treatment and transplanting it into the patient after treatment to reinstate fertility - in addition to being technically difficult, raises concerns that cancer cells lurking within the tissue could be re-introduced into the body with disastrous results.
Now a study in mice by teams from Leeds and Manchester** led by Dr S. Samuel Kim has shown that fears about reintroducing cancer may be over-stated (at least in lymphoma patients) and that preserving ovarian tissue for later autotransplanation might be the viable option for young cancer patients anxious to preserve their fertility.
The researchers grafted frozen and thawed ovarian tissue from 18 women with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma or Hodgkins Lymphomas (cancers of the lymph glands) into 30 immunodeficient mice. For controls, they grafted a disease-positive lymph node from a patient with a recurrent B-cell lymphoma, into three immunodeficient mice. None of the mice grafted with the ovarian tissue developed human lymphomas, but all three of the mice who received a graft from a diseased lymph node developed human B-cell lymphomas.
Dr Kim said: "Ovarian tissue from cancer patients has been banked at many centres worldwide in preparation ultimately for transplantation back into patients after successful treatment. However, this step requires prior assurance that the tissue will not transmit disease after grafting.
"This is the first reported in-vivo investigation of residual malignant disease in human ovarian tissue using a xenograft and this model, involving immunodeficient mice, may help to confirm clinical decisions about the risks of transplanting ovarian tissue back into cancer patients.
"Our patients were deliberately selected for having high-risk disease and in the three years following tissue harvesting, half have died of lymphoma. So the study was based on worst-case scenarios of highly aggressive lymphomas that were likely to have already spread at the time the ovarian tissue was harvested."
He said the immunodeficient mouse model was suitable for investigating the safety of ovarian transplantation, serving as a practical screen for the disease. While the study had focused on lymphoma, it was also an appropriate model for other cancers.
However, he warned that the follow-up period was relatively short because of the naturally short life span of the mice and that efforts to develop new techniques to detect residual disease should continue.
"Nevertheless, our findings are of immediate relevance to women with lymphomas who are considering banking ovarian tissue for fertility conservation and also to their physicians who need to provide them with appropriate advice. We can now be more optimistic about the application of ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation in cancer patients, although these reassuring findings should not be interpreted as an absolute indication of safety."
Dr Kim said the research teams were now working on finding a method to screen cancer cells in ovarian tissue from patients before transplantation, and on laboratory and animal techniques to grow and mature primordial ovarian follicles.
(ends)
MW Communications
For those who have no partner, young girls, or women who require immediate treatment, embryo freezing is not feasible.
But another option - preserving ovarian tissue before treatment and transplanting it into the patient after treatment to reinstate fertility - in addition to being technically difficult, raises concerns that cancer cells lurking within the tissue could be re-introduced into the body with disastrous results.
Now a study in mice by teams from Leeds and Manchester** led by Dr S. Samuel Kim has shown that fears about reintroducing cancer may be over-stated (at least in lymphoma patients) and that preserving ovarian tissue for later autotransplanation might be the viable option for young cancer patients anxious to preserve their fertility.
The researchers grafted frozen and thawed ovarian tissue from 18 women with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma or Hodgkins Lymphomas (cancers of the lymph glands) into 30 immunodeficient mice. For controls, they grafted a disease-positive lymph node from a patient with a recurrent B-cell lymphoma, into three immunodeficient mice. None of the mice grafted with the ovarian tissue developed human lymphomas, but all three of the mice who received a graft from a diseased lymph node developed human B-cell lymphomas.
Dr Kim said: "Ovarian tissue from cancer patients has been banked at many centres worldwide in preparation ultimately for transplantation back into patients after successful treatment. However, this step requires prior assurance that the tissue will not transmit disease after grafting.
"This is the first reported in-vivo investigation of residual malignant disease in human ovarian tissue using a xenograft and this model, involving immunodeficient mice, may help to confirm clinical decisions about the risks of transplanting ovarian tissue back into cancer patients.
"Our patients were deliberately selected for having high-risk disease and in the three years following tissue harvesting, half have died of lymphoma. So the study was based on worst-case scenarios of highly aggressive lymphomas that were likely to have already spread at the time the ovarian tissue was harvested."
He said the immunodeficient mouse model was suitable for investigating the safety of ovarian transplantation, serving as a practical screen for the disease. While the study had focused on lymphoma, it was also an appropriate model for other cancers.
However, he warned that the follow-up period was relatively short because of the naturally short life span of the mice and that efforts to develop new techniques to detect residual disease should continue.
"Nevertheless, our findings are of immediate relevance to women with lymphomas who are considering banking ovarian tissue for fertility conservation and also to their physicians who need to provide them with appropriate advice. We can now be more optimistic about the application of ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation in cancer patients, although these reassuring findings should not be interpreted as an absolute indication of safety."
Dr Kim said the research teams were now working on finding a method to screen cancer cells in ovarian tissue from patients before transplantation, and on laboratory and animal techniques to grow and mature primordial ovarian follicles.
(ends)
MW Communications
Lymphoma Current Events and Lymphoma News RSSNew cancer target for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Physician-scientists from Weill Cornell Medical College have discovered a molecular mechanism that may prove to be a powerful target for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects lymphocytes, or white blood cells.
Drugs to treat anemia in cancer patients linked to thromboembolism
Medications frequently given to cancer patients to reduce their risk of anemia are associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, according to new research led by Dawn Hershman, M.D, M.S., co-director of the breast cancer program at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center.
Researchers find new way to attack inflammation in Graves' eye disease
A small group of patients with severe Graves' eye disease experienced rapid improvement of their symptoms - and improved vision - following treatment with the drug rituximab.
Approved lymphoma drug shows promise in early tests against bone cancer
A drug already approved for the treatment of lymphoma may also slow the growth of the most deadly bone cancer in children and teens, according to an early-stage study published online today in the International Journal of Cancer.
Immunotherapy demonstrates long-term success in treating lymphoma
Targeted immunotherapy has been an attractive new therapeutic area for a number of cancers because it has the potential to destroy tumor cells without damaging surrounding normal tissue. New study results demonstrate high success rates using specialized white blood cells to prevent or treat lymphoma associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV-lymphoma) in patients who have received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).
Exercise is good medicine for lymphoma patients
A healthy dose of exercise is good medicine, even for lymphoma patients receiving chemotherapy, University of Alberta researchers have found.
Childhood cancer survivors experience suicidal thoughts decades after diagnosis
Adult survivors of childhood cancer have an increased risk for suicidal thoughts, even decades after their cancer treatments ended, according to a study led by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute scientists.
New therapy for vasculitis will help patients avoid infertility and cancer
Researchers have identified that Rituxan, a drug previously approved for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's B cell lymphoma and rheumatoid arthritis, can treat severe ANCA-associated vasculitis as effectively as cyclophosphamide, the current standard therapy.
Studying cancer in pet dogs to find new treatments for human patients
A team of scientists at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, USA, says that studying pet dogs with cancer could yield valuable information on how to diagnose and treat human cancers.
Scientists identify genetic cause of previously undefined primary immune deficiency disease
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a genetic mutation that accounts for a perplexing condition found in people with an inherited immunodeficiency.
More Lymphoma Current Events and Lymphoma News Articles
 |
Living with Lymphoma: A Patient's Guide by Elizabeth M. Adler PhD (Author) "Adler's professional background and experience as a lymphoma survivor make her the perfect person to write this book. The author's explanations are a gentle guide and a thorough introduction to the basics that give us the confidence to handle decisions relating to treatments and other aspects of lymphoma." -- Anne Atkinson, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin disease survivor and coordinator of the Women's Cancer Group |
 |
Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas by James O Armitage (Editor), Peter M Mauch (Editor), Nancy Lee Harris (Editor), Bertrand Coiffier (Editor), Riccardo Dalla-Favera (Editor) Thoroughly updated for its Second Edition, Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas is the definitive textbook on the biology, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of all forms of non-Hodgkin lymphomas. With backgrounds in medical and radiation oncology, molecular biology, and pathology, the editors and contributors provide an international, multidisciplinary approach to the topic. This edition is the first text using the new World Health Organization classification of non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The book offers complete coverage of the most current techniques for diagnosis, staging, and treatment, the approach to specific types of lymphoma, and special problems common to the management of patients with these disorders. A companion Website includes the fully searchable text and downloadable images. |
 |
100 Questions & Answers About Lymphoma by Peter Holman (Author), Jodi Garrett (Author), William D. Jansen (Author) This text is a patient-oriented guide to dealing with lymphoma. Questions and answers cover basic questions about the disease such as risk factors and causes; methods of prevention, screening, and diagnosis; available treatments and how to choose among them; and ways of coping with common emotional and physical difficulties associated with the diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Holman is a practicing oncologist, and Ms. Garrett is an oncology nurse; the pair team up to provide both a doctor’s and a caregiver’s perspective in answering these common questions. |
 |
Lymphoma (Fast Facts) by Chris Hatton (Author), Graham Collins (Author), John, M.D. Sweetenham (Author) Lymphomas arise from a single abnormal lymphocyte, yet many different subtypes of lymphoma occur. Recent advances in cellular and molecular techniques have revolutionized physicians' understanding of this malignancy, and there have been dramatic developments in diagnosis and treatment. "Fast Facts: Lymphoma" gives a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective on this challenging disease written by three experts in the field. Starting with a clear outline of the nature of lymphoma, its diagnosis, staging and management, this concise handbook goes on to provide specific details of individual lymphoma entities and treatment modalities. "Fast Facts: Lymphoma" is a valuable handbook for training doctors and specialist nurses working in the field of hemato-oncology, and will be of interest to the... |
 |
Hodgkin Lymphoma by Richard T Hoppe (Editor), Peter M Mauch (Editor), James O Armitage (Editor), Volker Diehl (Editor), Lawrence M Weiss (Editor) The definitive text on Hodgkin lymphoma is now in its thoroughly revised, updated Second Edition. More than 100 recognized authorities from all parts of the world provide comprehensive, current information on every aspect of Hodgkin lymphoma, including etiology, epidemiology, biology, pathology, evaluation, staging, treatment, and follow-up. This edition describes the increased use of PET scanning in staging and follow-up. Chapters discuss current treatment options—including combination chemotherapy, radiation therapy, novel treatment techniques, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation—and offer guidelines for treatment selection. Full consideration is given to late effects of therapy and clinical trials for assessing quality of life in patients. This edition includes... |
 |
Lymphoma: Pathology, Diagnosis and Treatment by Robert Marcus (Editor), John W. Sweetenham (Editor), Michael E. Williams (Editor) Major advances have occurred in almost every aspect of the diagnosis and treatment of lymphoma in recent years. Our understanding of the molecular biology and genetics of the disease has increased exponentially, and significant developments in imaging of this malignancy have resulted in earlier and more accurate diagnosis. At the same time, advances in therapeutic immunology have led to the development of several new treatment options. This landmark new text describes these advances in a single concise volume, placing them in the context of daily clinical practice. Introductory chapters review epidemiology, prognostic factors, imaging and therapeutic immunology. These are followed by chapters on each lymphoma subtype, dealing comprehensively with all aspects of the diagnosis and treatment... |
 |
Handcrafted Artisan Lymphoma Awareness Heart Pendant & Sterling Silver Chain Necklace 412 by Pendant@Joyful-Creations.com Pendant: Peridot Swarovski Austrian crystal bicones, sterling silver Bali bead cap & daisy spacers, sterling rounds. Crystal AB faceted Czech firepolished glass pear bead and sterling silver round dangle and pendant all handwrapped with sterling silver wire. Pendant drops approx. 2 1/2" and includes a sterling silver bale marked .925 on the back. Focal Bead: White polymer clay heart with beautiful lime green roses all around the heart, handmade by Uiko Ogawa. Show your support for a cure for Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Lyme Disease, Muscular Dystrophy. 18" Sterling silver Italian Singapore chain included in this auction. Singapore chains are so elegant! They have a natural twist in their manufacture and therefore LOTS of sparkle. ** Gift Boxed - Ready for gift giving ** |
 |
Lymphoma Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad by MyHeritageWear.com The Lymphoma Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Lymphoma Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Lymphoma Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness! |
 |
New Design Green Lymphoma Awareness 8" Car Magnet by sci New Design Green Lymphoma Awareness 8" Car Magnet |
|
As Long As I'm Here by Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Benefit CD |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |