Professor Ofer Spielberghead of the Institute of Hematology and Oncohematology
Ihilov Clinic presents a comprehensive approach to the treatment of spinal lymphoma, based on the integration of the latest protocols and years of clinical experience. The center's oncohematologists apply personalized schemes adapted to the molecular profile of the tumour of each specific patient. The clinic's diagnostic base includes expert-class equipment that allows for the detection of minimal changes in tissue structure.
The conditions of stay in the medical center meet international comfort standards, which is especially important during long courses of therapy. Coordination of all stages of treatment is carried out by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. There is an option to use personal accompaniment services, significantly simplifying the stay for treatment in a foreign country.
About the disease
Spinal lymphoma is a malignant neoplasm of lymphoid tissue affecting the structures of the spinal column. The pathology develops as a result of uncontrolled division of altered lymphocytes, which infiltrate the bone tissue of the vertebrae and surrounding structures.
The disease manifests as a persistent pain syndrome in the back, worsening with movement and at night. As the process progresses, neurological disorders occur, related to the compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Patients report weakness in the limbs, sensory disturbances, and limited mobility.
Treatment methods for spinal lymphoma
At Ihilov Clinic, the choice of therapeutic strategy is based on the results of molecular-genetic analysis of the tumour, the stage of the disease, and the overall condition of the body.
Chemotherapy
Used as the primary method for aggressive forms of the disease with high proliferative activity. The schemes include combinations of cytostatic drugs from various groups that affect different phases of the cell cycle. Modern protocols provide for cyclic administration of medications with controlled intervals to restore healthy tissues. Dosages are calculated taking into account the body surface area and the functional state of the organs. Monitoring of effectiveness is carried out through regular imaging and laboratory markers.
Targeted therapy
Prescribed in the presence of specific molecular targets in the structure of tumour cells identified by immunohistochemical studies. The drugs selectively block signaling pathways necessary for the survival and proliferation of pathological lymphocytes. The mechanism of action is based on binding to cell surface receptors or inhibiting intracellular enzymes. This approach minimizes damage to healthy tissues and reduces the severity of side effects. Treatment response is monitored using PET-CT to assess the metabolic activity of residual foci.
Immunotherapy
This method activates the body's own defense mechanisms to recognize and destroy tumour cells. Monoclonal antibodies bind to surface antigens of the lymphoma, marking them for the immune system. Checkpoint inhibitors remove the blockade from T-lymphocytes, restoring their ability to attack malignant elements. The use of CAR-T cell therapy involves genetic modification of the patient's own lymphocytes to enhance anti-tumour activity. This strategy is particularly effective in refractory forms of the disease.
Radiation therapy
Used for local control of the tumour process in the spine, especially in cases of spinal cord compression or significant pain manifestations. IMRT and IGRT technologies allow for the formation of highly precise dose fields that maximally cover the pathological focus while minimizing radiation to surrounding structures. Dose fractionation is calculated taking into account the radiosensitivity of the specific histological type of lymphoma. Stereotactic radiosurgery is used for treating limited areas of damage with submillimeter precision. Course planning is based on CT and MRI data with three-dimensional modeling.
Surgical intervention
Surgery is indicated in cases of significant compression of nerve structures threatening irreversible neurological disorders when conservative methods do not provide rapid effects. Decompressive laminectomy creates space for the spinal cord, eliminating mechanical compression by tumour masses. Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty stabilize damaged vertebrae, preventing pathological fractures and deformity of the spinal column. Neuro-navigation systems ensure precision in manipulations close to critical anatomical formations. Postoperative management includes early mobilization and rehabilitation measures to restore motor functions.
Stem cell transplantation
This method is used for highly aggressive variants of lymphoma or in cases of relapse after standard treatment requiring a radical approach. Autologous transplantation involves the prior collection of the patient's own stem cells followed by high-dose chemotherapy and reinfusion of the prepared material. Conditioning the body with intensive courses of cytostatics destroys residual tumour cells, while the transplanted cells restore hematopoiesis. Allogeneic transplantation from a compatible donor additionally provides a graft-versus-lymphoma effect. The procedure requires strict adherence to aseptic techniques and monitoring of immunological parameters.
Supportive therapy
Aimed at alleviating pain syndrome and preventing complications of the main treatment, significantly improving the quality of life at all stages. Bisphosphonates strengthen the bone tissue of the vertebrae, reducing the risk of pathological fractures in lytic lesions. Latest-generation antiemetics effectively control nausea caused by cytostatic therapy. Growth factors stimulate the recovery of blood parameters after myelosuppressive effects. Physiotherapy procedures and therapeutic exercise help maintain muscle tone and spinal mobility.
- Stem cell treatment
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Oncological surgeries
Methods of diagnosing the disease
At Ihilov Clinic, all diagnostic procedures are performed on high-precision expert-class equipment, ensuring maximum informativeness of the studies. A comprehensive examination is planned in advance and conducted in a short time, allowing for prompt initiation of treatment.
First day
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient is directed to a consultation with a treating physician specializing in oncohematological diseases. The specialist conducts a detailed medical history, including information about the onset and nature of symptoms, previous treatment methods, and comorbidities. The physical examination includes neurological testing to assess the degree of compression of nerve structures and functional impairments. Based on the obtained data, the doctor forms a list of necessary diagnostic studies that will provide a complete picture of the patient's condition and the extent of the pathological process.
Second day
The diagnostic program includes a set of laboratory and instrumental studies for the most accurate visualization of the tumour and assessment of the overall condition of the body.
- Comprehensive clinical blood test with leukocyte formula
- Biochemical blood test with liver and kidney parameters
- Determination of lactate dehydrogenase and beta-2-microglobulin levels
- Immunophenotyping of peripheral blood lymphocytes
- Spinal MRI with contrast enhancement
- Whole-body PET-CT to identify extravertebral foci
- Biopsy of the affected vertebra under CT control
- Histological examination of the biopsy with immunohistochemistry
- Molecular-genetic analysis of the tumour tissue
- Myelogram to rule out bone marrow involvement
Third day
The treating physician gathers a multidisciplinary consultation involving an oncohematologist, radiation therapist, neurosurgeon, and nuclear medicine specialist for a detailed discussion of the diagnostic results. Collegial analysis of all obtained data allows for consideration of the specifics of the particular clinical case and the formulation of the most relevant personalized treatment plan. This approach ensures an optimal combination of various therapeutic methods and prediction of possible complications.
Diagnostic procedures
- Biopsy under CT control
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Diagnosis — PET CT
- Biopsy and histological studies
- Blood biochemistry
How much does treatment cost in Israel
The cost of treatment for spinal lymphoma is calculated individually and depends on the stage of the disease, chosen methods of therapy, the need for surgical intervention, and the duration of hospitalization. To obtain a detailed price calculation applicable to a specific clinical case, it is necessary to contact the clinic's consultant at the phone number indicated on the website. The consultant will provide a preliminary estimate based on the available medical documentation and answer questions about the organizational aspects of treatment.
| Type of service | Prices |
|---|---|
| Basic diagnostic package | from $2720 |
| Non-surgical treatment | from $960 |
| Bone marrow transplantation | from $49600 |
| Consultation conducted by world-class expert Professor Ofer Spielberg |