Sabtu, 15 Maret 2014

A Look At Bladder Cancer Research

By Luisa Sharpe


Bladder cancer research today is looking at new ways to detect the disease earlier as well as more effective and less invasive ways to treat it once it has been discovered. There are many trials and studies being done that will contribute vital information to what is already known by researchers.

The trend for early detection is in urine analysis. There are three new tests for proteins in the urine that help to identify tumors especially in persons who have already been treated for this disease and may be suffering a relapse. The first, called BTA test, checks for a specific protein that signals the return of cancerous cells. There is a problem with false results because other conditions can affect the outcome.

The NMP22 test is used to detect the most common cancers found in bladders. These are transitional cell cancers and they produce a protein in the nucleus of their cells that is found in small amounts in all people. When the levels of this protein increase it can be detected by this test.

The newest test being used is the Mcm5 test. It has shown itself to be just as effective at detecting TCC as the NMP22 test. When used together these two tests reliably indicate the presence of TCC earlier than other methods.

The method doctors most commonly use to find tumors is to use the cystoscopy system which is very effective and invasive. The doctor must insert a camera into the bladders of their patients after a liquid has been injected that helps illuminate the tumor and blood vessels that feed it. This procedure would need to be done regardless of any other tests that have been done.

Further studies are being made on the treatment of these cancers. One study involves using light reactive drugs to treat the cells. In this study the drug is put into patients bladders and allowed to sit for awhile. Saline solution is added and then they use a special light to activate the drugs. This method is very effective. It kills the cells and damages the blood vessels that feed them. It then triggers your immune system to destroy the tumor completely.

There are numerous studies being done that compare the different effects of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery combinations. The common goal is to find out which combination works best for patients. Chemotherapy is used to shrink the tumors, and then radiotherapy is used to help stop the return of the disease and surgery as a last resort to remove the organ. During the radiotherapy the area is flooded with oxygen because cancerous cells are more easily killed when they have plenty of oxygen.

Many researchers are experimenting with the concept of biological therapy. This method of treatment uses your body's natural substances to fight the cancers that you may have. Many drugs have been produced and are being used in tests with fairly good results. The reports from researchers give hope to those who may be suffering from this disease.




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