New ways to search and destroy cancer cells

Hyderabad: Cancer cells are highlighted by inserting a dye into the body of the patient, which makes it easy for surgeons to remove them via laparoscopy or robotic treatment.

New forms of treatment like these and molecular markers were discussed by oncologists and gynaecologists at the 23rd annual conference of the Association of Gynaecologic Oncologists of India in the city.

These new forms of treatment are being emphasised upon as many normal cells get damaged while removing cancerous growths.

Dr T. Subramanyeshwar Rao, organising chairperson of the conference and medical director at Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital, said, “Cervical cancer continues to be the commonest cancer among women. There are better treatment options where damage to the other organs of the body is limited. There is technology which allows us to attack only the cancerous lymph nodes and not damage the healthy cells or organs. This helps in better recovery of the patient.”

As the uterus and urinary bladder have common nerves, damage to the bladder causes urinary problems in women and it was felt that these nerves need to be protected during treatment.

Dr Neerja Bhatla, president of Association of Gynaecologic Oncologists of India said, “Protecting other organs and nerves is the prime motto during treatment. Otherwise, we have seen women having difficulty in urinating and they require a catheter which affects their quality of life.”

The cancerous tumours are classified on the basis of stages but doctors are now also looking at the molecular markers which identify them.

Dr R. Rajagopalan, consultant gynaecologic oncologist, said, “Treatments based on the stages of tumours have shown that it does not have the same effect on all patients. While some do very well, the response of others is minimal. Hence we are now looking at the molecule markers and accordingly modifying the medicine to suit their purpose. This personalised medicine has worked well in a few cases and we are now looking at it as another definite form of treatment.”

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