The Ichilov Clinic is renowned for its comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach. This strategy ensures coordination among specialists from various fields, necessary for a thorough assessment of complex oncological diseases. Leading hematologists and oncologists with international expertise and extensive clinical experience in combating various types of lymphomas are involved in the treatment of centrocytic lymphoma in Israel.
The medical center utilizes the latest technological advancements and innovative equipment, allowing for high precision in determining the disease's characteristics and staging. Individualized treatment programs are developed based on the unique characteristics of the patient's disease, increasing the chances of a successful outcome. Ichilov actively employs advanced methods not available in all countries, including targeted therapy, treatment with monoclonal antibodies, and the latest immunotherapy protocols.
The medical center emphasizes service quality and comfortable conditions for patients. The staff speaks multiple languages, and the accompaniment and translation service makes treatment comfortable for foreign patients.
About the Disease
Centrocytic lymphoma (follicular lymphoma) is the second most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma — a cancer of the lymphatic system. It falls into the category of indolent (slow-growing) lymphomas and most often affects B-lymphocytes.
The exact causes of centrocytic lymphoma are not fully established; theoretically, the risk of developing the disease may be increased by genetic mutations, exposure to certain viral infections, possible environmental factors, and heredity. The BCL2 gene mutation, which blocks apoptosis — the programmed natural death of cells and thereby promotes their uncontrolled proliferation, is often associated with follicular lymphoma.
The symptoms of centrocytic lymphoma can be nonspecific and varied, many of which are similar to other forms of lymphoma. The most characteristic signs include:
- painless enlargement of lymph nodes, most often in the neck, armpits, or groin;
- fatigue and weakness that does not improve with rest;
- unexplained weight loss;
- night sweats and fever without apparent cause;
- frequent infections due to a weakened immune system.
Each case of follicular lymphoma is unique, as are its manifestations. In some cases, asymptomatic disease is discovered incidentally during a medical examination for another reason.
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Treatment Methods for the Disease
Doctors at Ichilov approach the treatment of each patient individually, depending on the specifics of the disease's progression. Each method is considered based on the stage, overall condition, extent of lymphoma spread, and previously applied treatments. The decision is made by a multidisciplinary medical team after detailed analysis and discussion.
Observation or “watch and wait”
For asymptomatic patients, a watchful waiting strategy may be appropriate. This method is suitable when the disease does not affect the quality of life and overall condition of the patient, due to the slow progression of the disease.
Chemotherapy
This method is based on the use of antineoplastic agents that help destroy cancer cells. Cytotoxic therapy can be used either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other types of therapeutic interventions, such as monoclonal antibodies. Modern approaches to treating centrocytic lymphoma consider chemotherapy as a fundamental tool in aggressive disease progression and symptomatic treatment.
Monoclonal Antibodies
Treatment with monoclonal antibodies is based on specialized agents, which are laboratory-produced antibodies similar to those synthesized by tumor cells. Their main feature is targeting cancer cell antigens, typically CD20, to induce their destruction. The use of monoclonal antibodies as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy (e.g., R-CHOP regimen) is an effective strategy that optimizes prognosis and contributes to prolonging the remission period.
Radiotherapy
Localized radiation in cases of patients with centrocytic lymphoma may be appropriate to destroy small clusters of tumor cells, especially in early stages, or when one or more nodes are affected. The Ichilov medical center uses modern linear accelerators, TrueBeam and Lunac. Thanks to the precision and control over beam intensity, this equipment allows for highly targeted delivery of high doses of radiation to tumor nodes while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy tissues.
Targeted Therapy
An innovative approach to treating oncological pathologies of the lymphatic system. This method uses specially selected agents, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors or other molecular-targeted agents. They specifically affect the molecular pathways that play a critically important role in the development and growth of cancer cells. Therapeutic agents are selected individually for each unique profile based on existing mutations and molecular analysis of the tumor.
Immunotherapy
Another innovative approach to treatment relies on specific immunotherapeutic agents, including checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1 and CTLA-4). Their feature is that they can stimulate the natural capabilities of the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This area of therapy is constantly evolving and opens new prospects for treating indolent lymphomas.
Stem Cell Transplantation
In cases of recurrent or refractory disease, high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation may be appropriate. This method involves the introduction of new stem cells after the pathological cells have been destroyed using chemotherapeutic agents or radiation. Unfortunately, in such cases, some healthy cells are also affected. The procedure aims to restore the optimal state and functions of the hematopoietic system.
- Stem cell treatment
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Monoclonal therapy
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
The diagnosis of centrocytic lymphoma involves a comprehensive approach. At the Ichilov Clinic, it takes three working days to clarify the diagnosis.
First Day
The doctor begins with a physical examination, which includes checking for enlarged lymph nodes and other signs, such as liver or spleen enlargement. The doctor reviews complaints and collects medical history.
Second Day
- Laboratory blood tests.
- Lymph node biopsy followed by histological examination.
- Immunophenotyping using flow cytometry or immunohistochemistry to analyze surface markers on cells to determine the type of lymphoma.
- Molecular genetic studies to identify characteristic genetic changes.
- Computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET).
- Bone marrow examination.
Third Day
The interpretation of research results at the Ichilov Clinic is conducted by a multidisciplinary group, which includes hematologists, oncologists, histologists, radiologists, surgeons, and stem cell transplantation specialists. The determination of the treatment course is made collegially, taking into account all available data.
- Computed tomography
- Diagnosis — PET CT
- Biopsy and histological studies
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The cost of treating centrocytic lymphoma at the Ichilov Clinic primarily depends on the patient's condition at the time of admission. The stage of the disease and accompanying symptoms influence the number, complexity, and price of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
You can call the number listed on the website to discuss in detail how the treatment program is organized and how much it costs at the medical center. A professional consultant will provide detailed information about the clinic's capabilities, where to view ratings and reviews, and what is included in the treatment plan. Any questions regarding trip organization and financial details can be clarified in the online chat or through a special feedback form.
Advantages of Centrocytic Lymphoma Treatment in Israel
- Interdisciplinary approach and leading experts
- Modern diagnostic methods
- Individualized approach to treatment
- Language support, quality of services, and comfort of stay
- Continuous development
Choosing Ichilov for the treatment of centrocytic lymphoma is a choice in favor of a clinic where high medical expertise, individualized modern treatment, support, and care for patients are combined at all stages of diagnosis and treatment. Schedule a video consultation via Zoom or Skype and receive an expert assessment of your specific case from a leading specialist in hematology and oncology.