Private MD News - Cancer Detection and Tumor Markers

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There are a number of ways people can develop lung cancer, but regardless of the methodology, catching it early is key to recovery. For some, the process of finding whether the disease is present has been arduous and painful, but doctors are researching new ways to find out if patients have the illness more quickly and effortlessly, while others pioneer better medication and treatment plans for those who do have it.

The BBC reported that clinicians in Northern Ireland are using new technology for cancer detection that makes it a same-day outpatient procedure. In the past, imaging and blood tests were necessary in order to get a full overview of the lung tissues, but the new device is comprised of a flexible telescope, allowing doctors to visually examine all the inner workings of the lung and give a definitive diagnosis. Called a bronchial endoscope, the source stated that the tool can take tissue samples for biopsy and expedite overall treatment. While other testing is still critical for diagnosing the exact kind and stage of cancer present, this procedure lets clinicians know quickly if further trials are necessary.

"The majority of patients that we see for this procedure have suspected lung cancer," said Terence McManus, a respiratory consultant who carries out these procedures. "It's a priority that these patients are investigated as quickly as possible so their treatment can commence."

Getting extra assistance... Full Story

There are some forms of cancer that are more virulent than others, including variants that attack the bladder. The SEER Cancer Institute stated that about 75,000 people contractbladder cancer each year, and of those, about one-fifth will die before the year's end. Scientists are trying to find medicines that will better treat the pain and suffering associated with this illness, as well as seekbetter treatment methods to cure the disease. Carrying out blood testing to look for medication levels and certain genetic markers may make the process easier for patients.

The Colorado Cancer Center revealed recently that research regarding a specific blood protein, Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (SPARC), was higher in bladder cancer patients whose bodies were fighting tumors more effectively. Blood testing showed that these proteins acted like anti-inflammatory drugs, reducing the swelling in tissues surrounding the growths and impeding the progress of bladder cancer. Those who were unable to create this protein or secreted less SPARC saw more rapid progression of the illness, indicating to researchers that providing patients with these kinds of proteins could help slow or halt tumors and stop them from metastasizing. There was also evidence that SPARC could stop tumors on the move from embedding in new organs, keeping the spread of the disease in check.

Looking for genetic connections... Full Story