Doctor Victoria Vishnevskaya-DaiLeading ocular oncologist
Reticulosarcoma, or diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, belongs to the group of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphomas, the effective therapy of which requires timely diagnosis and comprehensive anti-tumour therapy. Treatment of reticulosarcoma in Israel attracts international patients due to the high level of oncological hematology, the use of progressive methods, and the achievement of prolonged remission. The high effectiveness of therapy is ensured by strict adherence to international protocols, access to innovative drugs, and a multidisciplinary approach. Molecular diagnostic methods help establish an accurate diagnosis, allowing for a detailed genetic analysis of the tumour cells.
Reviews indicate that patients appreciate Israel for its developed medical tourism infrastructure, allowing for prompt diagnostic examinations and treatment in comfortable conditions. Israeli clinics are distinguished by a well-organized system for supporting international patients — from the moment of arrival in the country until the completion of rehabilitation. An important advantage is also the affordable cost of medical services.
About the disease
The disease develops due to the malignant transformation of B-lymphocytes and can affect lymph nodes, bone marrow, and other organs. Reticulosarcoma is an aggressive, rapidly progressing type of cancer; however, it is often possible to achieve stable remission or even complete recovery.
The causes of reticulosarcoma development are related to DNA mutations, leading to uncontrolled growth and division of B-lymphocytes.
Risk factors for developing DLBCL include:
- older age – the disease is diagnosed in patients of any age, but more often after 60 years;
- autoimmune diseases;
- viral infections (HIV, Epstein-Barr virus);
- family history (the presence of close relatives suffering from DLBCL).
Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the tumour focus. The most common signs include:
- rapidly increasing lump in the neck or abdomen;
- painless swelling in the neck, armpits, and groin;
- fever;
- fatigue;
- night sweats;
- nausea, vomiting;
- loss of appetite;
- weight loss.
DLBCL can negatively affect other organs, causing symptoms such as:
- respiratory organs – cough, shortness of breath, pain during breathing, swallowing difficulties;
- skeletal system – pain, increased risk of fractures;
- GIT – liver pain, intestinal disorders;
- excretory system – frequent urination, blood in urine, abdominal and lower back pain;
- skin – itching, peeling, rashes.
Treatment methods for the disease
At the Ichilov Clinic, the methods included in the individual program are selected based on the stage of cancer development, its prevalence, and the overall condition of the patient.
Radiation therapy
Radiation sessions are usually prescribed at the early stages of the disease, and for maximum therapeutic effect, they are combined with chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is also used at the terminal stage to alleviate symptoms and in case of recurrence. At the Ichilov Clinic, radiation is performed on modern equipment, using techniques that allow for targeted irradiation of the pathological focus, while minimally affecting surrounding healthy tissues.
Chemotherapy
In some cases, chemotherapy is considered a first-line treatment. It is particularly effective in cases involving the nervous system. The Ichilov Clinic uses the latest generation of chemotherapeutic agents that combine high efficacy with a gentle effect on the patient's body. Successfully destroying malignant cells, these drugs do not cause the severe side effects typical of classical chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
A modern anti-tumour method, the principle of which is to stimulate the patient's immune system. Specific monoclonal antibodies targeting the cells of this tumour destroy the anti-immune protection of cancer cells and make them vulnerable to anti-tumour immunity. Immunotherapy is usually combined with chemotherapy and is prescribed at any stage of the disease.
Targeted therapy
The use of special drugs that specifically attack malignant cells. Under the action of targeted drugs, cancer cells are either destroyed or made visible to the immune system. Targeted therapy is also prescribed at any stage of the disease, in recurrent and refractory (resistant to treatment) forms.
CAR-T cell therapy
CAR-T cell therapy is based on developing the ability of the patient's T-lymphocytes to accurately recognize malignant cells in laboratory conditions. Using advanced gene engineering techniques, T-lymphocytes are modified to produce a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). This receptor includes an antibody and a receptor molecule of the T-lymphocyte. After the modified lymphocytes are returned to the patient's bloodstream, CAR recognizes a specific marker on the surface of malignant B-lymphocytes, attaches to them, and destroys them.
CAR-T cell therapy is performed at advanced stages, in cases of refractory or recurrent forms.
Bone marrow transplantation
This method involves introducing healthy bone marrow stem cells into the patient's body. These cells replace those damaged by chemotherapy and other anti-tumour treatments. The procedure may use donor bone marrow or the patient's own (autologous transplantation). Before transplantation, a course of high-dose chemotherapy is conducted to suppress the patient's own bone marrow and immune system. After transplantation, the patient is placed in a sterile box for the time necessary for immune recovery.
- Radiation therapy
- Bone marrow transplantation in Israel
- Chemotherapy
- CAR-T therapy
Diagnostic methods for the disease
Since the symptoms of reticulosarcoma are similar to the signs of some other diseases, making an accurate diagnosis in the early stages of the disease can be quite challenging. At the Ichilov Clinic, a comprehensive examination of the patient and diagnosis takes about three days.
First day
On the first day of stay at the clinic, a primary consultation with the treating oncologist-hematologist takes place. During the appointment, the doctor gets acquainted with the patient, listens to their complaints, conducts a superficial examination, and prescribes additional examinations.
Second day
Diagnostic examinations:
- blood tests;
- imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET-CT);
- biopsy (taking a sample of tumour tissues for laboratory studies of malignant cells);
- aspiration and biopsy of bone marrow (procedures for collecting bone marrow cells for laboratory analysis);
- lumbar puncture (obtaining and studying cerebrospinal fluid is often prescribed when there is a suspicion of central nervous system involvement);
- molecular genetic analysis.
Third day
A medical council reviews the results of the conducted studies. Based on them, the doctors collectively establish a diagnosis and develop a comprehensive treatment program.
- Biopsy
- Computed Tomography
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Diagnosis — PET CT
How much does treatment cost
The cost of treatment consists of a number of factors determined after its completion. By contacting the clinic's consultant using the numbers provided on the website, one can find out the approximate cost.
Advantages of treatment in Israel
- Professionalism and vast clinical experience of doctors.
- Use of modern anti-tumour methods.
- Utilization of the latest diagnostic techniques.
- Development of an individual treatment program.
- Affordable prices.
By contacting the clinic's consultant, one can order an online consultation with an Israeli oncologist from home. The doctor answers the questions posed, evaluates the studied medical documentation, and recommends further treatment.