How I cured my Bone cancer

    Fight Against bone cancer

    “From Despair to Hope: How I Beat Bone Cancer and Found a New Life”

    What are Bones?

    Bones are the framework of the body. They are tough and fibrous and provide a scaffold for muscles, organs, and other tissues. Bones also produce blood cells and store minerals. 

    The bones in our body provide structure and protect our organs. These are made up of multiple types of tissue, including cartilage, bone, and minerals. There are 206 bones in the human body. They are located in the spinal column, skull, and face.

    How do Bones become cancerous?

    Bone cancer starts when cells in the bone begin to grow out of control. These cells can form tumors in the bone. Tumors can be either malignant(can grow and spread to other parts of the body) or benign(can’t spread to other parts of the body). There are several types of bone cancer, including osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma.

    Osteosarcoma

    A type of cancer that is characterized by the development of bone cancer. Cancer grows and kills cells in the bone, often near your cartilage. The disease is potentially deadly, but it is most commonly found in people over 60 years of age.

    Ewing’s sarcoma

    A type of cancer that affects the cells that make up the body’s immune system. It is a rare type of cancer that primarily affects young adults. It is a malignant tumor of the bone that can grow quickly and affect various parts of the body. The cancerous cells that form Ewing’s sarcoma are typically small, white, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma-type cells.

    Chondrosarcoma

    A type of cancer that forms in the cartilage and can manifest in any location in the body in which cartilage is present. It most often occurs in the bones of the pelvis, hip, leg, or arm. It can also occur in the cartilage of the ribs, spine, or other bones.

    Scientists are currently working to create tests that can be used to determine if a person is likely to develop cancer from their bones.

    The Story of a Bone Cancer Survivor

    I spoke to John who is a Bone Cancer Survivor. Let us hear John’s story in his own words:

    My name is John and I am a survivor of bone cancer. I was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2018 and was told that I had a very slim chance of survival. After months of chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatments, I was able to beat cancer and am now cancer-free.

    Through this article, I will share my story of how I cured my bone cancer and the steps I took to get there. I hope that my story will provide hope and inspiration to those who are currently battling cancer.

    How I Overcame the Fear of Bone Cancer

    When I was first diagnosed with bone cancer, I was scared. I had no idea what to expect and I was overwhelmed by the thought of having to go through treatment. I was scared of the pain, the side effects, and the unknown.

    But I knew I had to face my fear and take action. I started by researching the disease and learning as much as I could about it. I read about the different types of treatments and the potential side effects. I also talked to my doctor and asked questions about my specific case.

    I also reached out to other people who had gone through similar experiences. I found a support group online and connected with other people who had gone through the same thing. They shared their stories and gave me advice on how to cope with the fear and anxiety.

    I also made sure to take care of myself. I ate healthily, exercised, and tried to get enough rest. I also made sure to take time for myself and do things that I enjoyed. This helped me stay positive and gave me something to look forward to.

    Finally, I made sure to stay in touch with my doctor and keep up with my treatments. I also made sure to stay informed about the latest developments in bone cancer research. This helped me stay hopeful and gave me a sense of control over my situation.

    By facing my fear and taking action, I was able to overcome the fear of bone cancer. I am now in remission and living a healthy life. I am grateful for the support I received and for the strength, I found within myself.

    How I Used Alternative Treatments to Beat Bone Cancer

    When I was diagnosed with bone cancer, I was determined to beat it. I knew that traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation were important, but I also wanted to explore alternative treatments to give me the best chance of recovery.

    I started by researching different types of alternative treatments. I read about acupuncture, herbal remedies, and meditation. I also looked into dietary changes, like cutting out processed foods and eating more organic produce.

    I decided to try a combination of these treatments. I started acupuncture sessions to help reduce inflammation and pain. I also changed my diet to include more organic fruits and vegetables, and I cut out processed foods. I also started taking herbal supplements to help boost my immune system.

    Finally, I began meditating every day. This helped me to stay positive and focused on my recovery.

    I’m happy to say that my combination of traditional and alternative treatments worked. After a few months, I was cancer-free.

    I’m grateful for the alternative treatments I used to beat my cancer. They gave me the strength and courage to keep fighting and eventually win the battle.

    Benefits of Exercise and Nutrition During Bone Cancer Treatment

    Exercising and eating a healthy diet during bone cancer treatment can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being.

    • Exercise can help you maintain your strength and energy levels, while a nutritious diet can help you stay strong and fight off infection.
    • Exercise can help you stay strong and active during treatment. It can help you maintain your muscle strength and endurance, which can help you stay independent and active.
    • Exercise can also help you manage fatigue, which is a common side effect of cancer treatment. Regular exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which can help you feel better and reduce your risk of complications.
    • Eating a healthy diet is also important during bone cancer treatment. A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help you stay strong and fight off infection.
    • Eating a healthy diet can also help you maintain your weight and energy levels.

    How I Used Mindfulness to Cope with Bone Cancer Symptoms

    Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment and being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can help you cope with difficult emotions and physical symptoms.

    I started by taking a few minutes each day to sit in a quiet place and focus on my breathing. I would take deep breaths and focus on the feeling of the air entering and leaving my lungs. This helped me to relax and be more aware of my body.

    I also tried to be mindful of my thoughts and feelings. Whenever I felt overwhelmed or scared, I would take a few moments to acknowledge my emotions without judgment. I would remind myself that these feelings were normal and that I could get through them.

    I also used mindfulness to help me cope with physical symptoms. Whenever I felt pain or discomfort, I would take a few moments to focus on the sensation.

    I would try to be aware of the pain without letting it take over my thoughts. This helped me to stay in control of my body and not let the pain take over.

    Mindfulness has been a great tool for me in coping with the symptoms of bone cancer. It has helped me to stay in control of my body and my emotions, and to be more aware of my thoughts and feelings.

    Here is another story. Let’s watch

    A message to All who are suffering from Bone cancer

    It‘s tough being a cancer survivor. Every day feels like a war. Every breath feels like a fight. Every breath starts with you hoping and then reality comes in and we know that hope is gone.

    We know that we have to try new things and that you have to try to stay positive. I know that it‘s hard being a cancer survivor and I don‘t want you to feel this way, but I know that your future depends on how you feel right now.

    I‘m here for you. I‘m here to help you cope. I‘m here to help you find a way to keep your life beautiful. I‘m here to help you keep your head up and your shoulders down.

    I‘m here to help you keep your energy up and your energy kind. I‘m here to help you keep your head and your spirits up. I‘m here for you. I‘m here to help you stay alive. I‘m here for you. I‘m here to help you stay alive.

     

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    Pooja Dudeja

    Pooja Dudeja

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    Reviewed By : Dr. Aviral Vatsa

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    Non-Invasive Treatment of Breast Cancer Using Histotripsy

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The non-invasive nature of histotripsy could provide a less resource-intensive treatment option, reducing the need for surgical facilities and lengthy hospital stays. This could be a game-changer for rural and underserved areas where access to surgical oncologists and specialized care is limited. For countries like India, where cultural factors often influence healthcare decisions, the ability to preserve the breast could lead to increased acceptance and adherence to treatment protocols. The Potential Impact of Histotripsy in Treating Breast Cancer In the context of breast cancer, histotripsy has been shown to effectively reduce tumor burden in both subcutaneous and orthotopic mouse models, indicating its potential for treating primary breast tumors. The immunological responses to histotripsy ablation are mediated by the release of tumor antigens and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) into the tumor microenvironment. 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What Is Histotripsy? Histotripsy is a promising non-invasive, non-ionizing, non-thermal ablation modality for the treatment of breast cancer. It initiates local and systemic immunological responses, reduces tumor burden, and promotes an anti-tumor microenvironment. The immunomodulatory impact of histotripsy may be key to expanding the impact and promise of cancer immunotherapy, making it an attractive option for treating primary and metastatic breast cancer. The potential impact of histotripsy in treating breast cancer could be significant due to several key advantages: 1. Non-invasive Treatment Histotripsy’s non-invasive nature stands out as one of its most significant benefits. Traditional cancer surgeries involve incisions, which come with risks such as infection, longer hospital stays, and longer recovery periods. By using focused ultrasound waves, histotripsy can destroy cancerous tissues without making any cuts. 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    Non-Invasive Treatment of Liver Tumors: The Revolutionary Role of Histotripsy

    Liver tumors, whether benign or malignant, have long been a significant health concern. Traditional treatments, while effective, often involve invasive surgical procedures that come with inherent risks and complications. For many patients, especially those with small, numerous, or strategically located tumors, surgery might not be a viable option. However with Histotripsy, a groundbreaking procedure that promises a non-invasive alternative with remarkable potential, effective non-invasive treatment liver cancer is now possible. Histotripsy is a novel medical procedure that harnesses the power of ultrasound waves to mechanically disintegrate tissue structures. Unlike other treatments that depend on heat or radiation, histotripsy utilizes the sheer force of sound waves. These waves are meticulously focused on the target tissue, leading to its fragmentation without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. 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This uniformity in tissue disruption is a testament to histotripsy’s precision, ensuring that the treatment is both thorough and targeted. Furthermore, the visual evidence extends beyond just the immediate aftermath of the procedure. MR images from rodent Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) models, a common type of liver cancer, provide insights into the longer-term effects of histotripsy. Initial scans of these models show tumors with a hyperintense signal on T2-weighted MRI, indicating active and aggressive tumor growth. However, post-histotripsy images paint a different picture. The previously hyperintense tumors now display a T2 hypointense signal within the ablation zone, signifying successful disruption of the tumor cells. Even more promising are follow-up scans taken 12 weeks after the procedure. These images often reveal a near-total disappearance of the tumor, replaced by a small fibrous tissue zone. This transformation underscores histotripsy’s potential not just as a treatment method but as a possible path to long-term recovery. The visual evidence supporting histotripsy’s effectiveness is both compelling and comprehensive. From high-resolution MRI scans to hands-on morphological examinations, each piece of evidence builds a case for histotripsy as a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment for liver tumors. What are the benefits of Histotripsy for Liver Tumor Treatment? The Immune Response of Histotripsy Another fascinating aspect of histotripsy is its potential to induce an immune response. FACS analysis of histotripsy-ablated tumors identified significant levels of intratumoral CD8+ T cell infiltration, much higher than untreated control tumors. This suggests that histotripsy might play a role in boosting the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells. Additionally, there was a noticeable reduction in pulmonary metastases in mice treated with histotripsy compared to untreated controls. Given that bones, especially ribs, are highly reflective and absorptive for ultrasound propagation, the feasibility and safety of histotripsy through ribs were meticulously studied. The results were reassuring. Ablation zones created through full ribcage coverage were comparable to those with only overlying soft tissue. The temperature increase to ribs was minimal, ensuring no thermal damage to the ribs or surrounding tissue. However, it’s worth noting that in one paper by Smolock et al., body wall damage was reported. This was likely due to pre-focal cavitation on the ribs. But subsequent studies addressed this by adjusting the focal pressure and duty cycle, effectively eliminating such damage. 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For patients and medical professionals alike, it heralds a future of safer, more effective, and less invasive treatment options.

    Immunological Effects Of Histotripsy for Cancer Therapy

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The immunological aftermath of histotripsy, irrespective of its variant – mHIFU, BH, or CCH, remains consistent, primarily due to the analogous effects they exert on the targeted tissues. While potential nuances between these sub-therapies exist, current research has yet to pinpoint significant disparities in their immunologic outcomes. How does Histotripsy decrease pro-tumor immune cells? The tumor microenvironment is a complex ecosystem comprising various cell types, signaling molecules, and extracellular matrix components. Within this intricate network, certain immune cells, often termed as pro-tumor immune cells, play a pivotal role in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. These cells, which include tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs), actively suppress anti-tumor immune responses, thereby facilitating tumor progression. a. Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs): TAMs are a subset of macrophages that are recruited to the tumor site and are educated by the tumor microenvironment to adopt a pro-tumor phenotype. These cells can promote tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis while suppressing anti-tumor immune responses. Histotripsy’s ability to target and modulate TAMs is of significant interest. By disrupting the tumor microenvironment, histotripsy can potentially reprogram TAMs from a pro-tumor M2 phenotype to an anti-tumor M1 phenotype, thereby reversing their tumor-promoting effects. b. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs): MDSCs are a heterogeneous group of immature myeloid cells that expand during cancer, inflammation, and infection. In the context of cancer, MDSCs play a crucial role in suppressing T cell responses and promoting tumor growth. Preliminary studies suggest that histotripsy may reduce the number and suppressive function of MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immunity. c. Regulatory T cells (Tregs): Tregs are a subset of CD4+ T cells that play a critical role in maintaining immune homeostasis by suppressing excessive immune responses. However, in the tumor microenvironment, Tregs can inhibit anti-tumor immune responses, thereby facilitating tumor growth. The impact of histotripsy on Tregs is an area of active research. By disrupting the tumor microenvironment and releasing tumor antigens, histotripsy may modulate the function and recruitment of Tregs, potentially enhancing anti-tumor immunity. d. The Interplay with Other Immune Cells: Apart from the aforementioned pro-tumor immune cells, the tumor microenvironment also contains other immune cells like dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and B cells. The interplay between these cells and pro-tumor immune cells is complex and multifaceted. Histotripsy’s ability to modulate this intricate network holds immense therapeutic potential. For instance, by targeting pro-tumor immune cells, histotripsy may enhance the antigen-presenting function of dendritic cells, leading to a more robust activation of T cells and a potent anti-tumor immune response. The tumor microenvironment is a dynamic and complex landscape where various immune cells interact and influence tumor progression. Histotripsy, with its unique mechanism of action, holds the potential to modulate this environment, targeting pro-tumor immune cells, and enhancing anti-tumor immunity. As research in this area continues to evolve, a deeper understanding of histotripsy’s impact on the tumor microenvironment will pave the way for more effective and targeted cancer therapies. What is the role of Damage Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs)? Damage Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) are a group of intracellular molecules that have garnered significant attention in the realm of immunology and cellular biology. These molecules, under normal circumstances, reside within the confines of the cell and perform essential functions. However, when cells undergo stress, trauma, or damage, DAMPs are released into the extracellular environment, where they assume a new and critical role. One of the primary functions of DAMPs upon their release is to signal the immune system of potential threats. They act as distress signals, alerting the body to the presence of damaged or dying cells. This is particularly evident in procedures like histotripsy, a non-invasive technique that mechanically disrupts tissue structures. During histotripsy, the cellular damage leads to the liberation of various DAMPs, each with its unique role in the ensuing immune response. For instance, Calreticulin (CRT) is not just a mere bystander in this process. When released, CRT moves to the cell surface, where it aids in antigen presentation. This action effectively marks the damaged cells for elimination, kickstarting an adaptive immune response tailored to address the specific threat.  High Mobility Group  is another pivotal DAMP. As a nuclear protein, its primary role within the cell is to stabilize DNA structures. However, once outside, HMGB1 becomes a potent pro-inflammatory agent. It binds to receptors on immune cells, amplifying the inflammatory response, which is crucial in situations where rapid immune action is needed. Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), commonly recognized as the primary energy currency of the cell, also plays a role in this immune signaling process. When found outside the cell, ATP acts as a danger signal. Immune cells, recognizing the abnormal presence of extracellular ATP, are prompted to migrate to the site of injury, further intensifying the immune response. Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) complete the ensemble of key DAMPs released during histotripsy. These proteins, typically produced in response to cellular stress, have a dual role. Inside the cell, they ensure the proper folding of proteins. However, when released, HSPs actively stimulate the immune system, further emphasizing their importance in the body’s defense mechanisms. The intricate connection between DAMPs and the immune response holds profound implications, especially in the field of oncology. Tumors, by their very nature, suppress the immune system, allowing them to grow unchecked. However, the inflammation induced by DAMPs can be harnessed and directed

    Histotripsy: A Revolution in Precise Tissue Ablation

    Histotripsy has emerged as a beacon of innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of medical technology. It  promises a future where precise tissue ablation can be achieved without the invasiveness of traditional surgical methods. But what makes histotripsy stand out? The answer lies in its unique mechanism of action, which harnesses the power of ultrasound to mechanically disrupt tissue structures. This article delves deep into the mechanism of histotripsy and how it paves the way for precise tissue ablation, especially in the realm of cancer treatment. What is Histotripsy? Histotripsy, a groundbreaking medical technique, is rapidly gaining traction in the healthcare sector due to its potential to revolutionise tissue ablation procedures. The term “histotripsy” is derived from the Greek words “histo,” meaning tissue, and “tripsy,” meaning to break. Histotripsy is a non-invasive approach to tissue disruption, and its unique mechanism of action  sets it apart from any other innovations. . The concept of histotripsy was first introduced at the University of Michigan in 2004. Since its inception, the technique has undergone significant advancements, with researchers continually exploring its potential applications and refining its methodology. The term itself encapsulates the essence of the procedure: a method to break down soft tissue. How does Histotripsy work? The Fundamental Mechanism: Cavitation  Cavitation, a phenomenon central to histotripsy, refers to the formation, growth, and subsequent collapse of gas or vapour-filled bubbles within a liquid medium when subjected to rapid pressure changes. In the context of histotripsy, the human body’s tissue serves as this liquid medium, and high-intensity, short-duration ultrasound pulses induce the rapid pressure changes. When tissues are exposed to these potent ultrasound pulses, the alternating high and low pressures lead to the creation of minuscule bubbles or cavities. These bubbles might initially form around pre-existing gas pockets or microscopic impurities within the tissue. As the ultrasound pulses persist, these bubbles expand due to the negative pressure phases of the ultrasound wave. Bubble Dynamics: The Heart of Tissue Disruption  The true essence of histotripsy is realised during the bubble collapse phase. Following the negative phase, the positive pressure phase of the ultrasound wave causes the expanded bubbles to undergo a swift and violent implosion. This rapid collapse generates potent local shock waves and produces high-velocity liquid jets. These intense mechanical forces, stemming from both the shock waves and the jets, act upon the surrounding tissue. The outcome is a mechanical breakdown of the tissue at a cellular level, resulting in the tissue being fractionated into a liquefied form. This liquid consists of a homogenised blend of cell debris and the extracellular matrix. How does Histotripsy achieve precision in action? In the realm of medical interventions, precision is paramount. The ability to target specific tissues or cells without affecting the surrounding structures can be the difference between successful treatment and unintended complications. Histotripsy, with its groundbreaking approach to tissue ablation, exemplifies this principle of precision in action. Let’s delve deeper into how histotripsy achieves such unparalleled accuracy. Histotripsy employs high-intensity ultrasound pulses to induce cavitation within the targeted tissue. The beauty of this technique lies in the ability to focus these ultrasound beams to a specific point, known as the focal zone. Within this focal zone, the energy of the ultrasound waves is concentrated, ensuring that the cavitation-induced tissue disruption occurs primarily within this localised area. This means that only the tissue within the focal zone is affected, while the surrounding structures remain untouched. One of the standout features that bolster histotripsy’s precision is the integration of real-time imaging. As the ultrasound waves are administered, they not only induce cavitation but also provide a live visual feed of the treatment area. This dual capability allows clinicians to monitor the formation and collapse of bubbles in real-time. Such immediate feedback ensures that the treatment is progressing as intended and allows for on-the-fly adjustments. If, for instance, the bubbles are not forming in the desired location or pattern, the clinician can instantly modify the parameters to achieve the desired effect. The precision of histotripsy can be likened to the accuracy of a surgeon’s scalpel, but without the invasiveness of a blade. The controlled generation and collapse of microbubbles ensure that only the targeted cells or tissues are disrupted. This selectivity is especially crucial when treating tumours or lesions located close to vital organs or critical structures. For example, when targeting a tumour adjacent to a major blood vessel, the precision of histotripsy ensures that the vessel remains unharmed, reducing the risk of bleeding or other complications. In many medical treatments, especially those involving radiation or surgery, there’s always a concern about collateral damage to healthy tissues. Histotripsy’s precision minimises this risk. By confining the tissue disruption to the focal zone, histotripsy ensures that the surrounding healthy tissues are spared. This not only enhances the safety profile of the treatment but also promotes faster healing and recovery. What sets Histotripsy apart from other cancer treatments? Histotripsy’s distinctive non-thermal approach to tissue ablation offers a fresh perspective in the realm of medical interventions. While many therapeutic ultrasound techniques, such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), rely on generating heat to achieve therapeutic effects, histotripsy stands apart. Traditional methods work by raising the temperature of the targeted tissue to a point where cellular proteins denature, leading to cell death. Although effective, this thermal approach has inherent risks. Elevated temperatures can inadvertently damage surrounding healthy tissues, especially if the heat spreads beyond the targeted area. Moreover, tissues sensitive to heat, like neural tissues, can be at risk of unintended damage. In contrast, histotripsy operates on a fundamentally different principle. Instead of using heat, it employs mechanical forces to achieve tissue disruption. This is achieved through the controlled generation and violent collapse of microbubbles within the tissue, a process known as cavitation. The implosive collapse of these bubbles generates intense local shock waves and produces high-speed liquid jets. These forces act on the tissue, leading to mechanical breakdown at the cellular level without the need for heat. The non-thermal nature of histotripsy offers