Dr. Victoria Vishnevskaya-DaiLeading oncophthalmologist
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 antitumor 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. High therapy effectiveness is ensured by strict adherence to international protocols, access to innovative drugs, and a multidisciplinary approach. Accurate diagnosis is aided by molecular diagnostic methods that allow for detailed genetic analysis of tumor 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 reasonable 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 classified as an aggressive, rapidly developing type of cancer; however, it is often possible to achieve sustained remission or even complete recovery.
The causes of reticulosarcoma development are linked to DNA mutations, leading to uncontrolled growth and division of B-lymphocytes.
Risk factors for developing DLBCL include:
- advanced 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 (presence of close relatives suffering from DLBCL).
Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the tumor focus. The most common signs include:
- rapidly enlarging mass 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.
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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 spread, and the overall condition of the patient.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation sessions are usually prescribed at 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, minimizing the impact on surrounding healthy tissues.
Chemotherapy
In some cases, chemotherapy is considered a first-line treatment. It is particularly effective for nervous system involvement. 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 typically associated with classical chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
A modern antitumor method based on stimulating the patient's immune system. Specific monoclonal antibodies targeting the cells of this tumor dismantle the anti-immune defense of cancer cells, making them vulnerable to antitumor 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 cases of recurrent and refractory 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 returning the modified lymphocytes 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 conducted 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 antitumor treatments. The procedure may use donor bone marrow or the patient's own (autologous transplantation). Prior to 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 those of some other diseases, making an accurate diagnosis in the early stages 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 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 tests.
Second Day
Diagnostic examinations include:
- blood tests;
- imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET-CT);
- biopsy (sampling of tumor tissue for laboratory analysis of malignant cells);
- aspiration and biopsy of bone marrow (procedures for collecting bone marrow cells for laboratory analysis);
- lumbar puncture (collection and examination of cerebrospinal fluid, often prescribed when central nervous system involvement is suspected);
- molecular-genetic analysis.
Third Day
A medical council reviews the results of the conducted studies. Based on these results, 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 is determined by a number of factors, which are assessed 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 extensive clinical experience of doctors.
- Use of modern antitumor methods.
- Utilization of the latest diagnostic techniques.
- Development of an individual treatment program.
- Reasonable 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.