Peripheral-blood stem-cell transplantation
Article Abstract:
The transplantation of peripheral-blood stem cells may allow a faster return to normal bone marrow functioning. Until very recently, patients with malignancies received whole bone marrow transplantations after the toxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation. The cells and agents that build blood are also found in peripheral blood, and can be identified by the CD34 antigens. CD34 stem cells can then be collected by machine, which takes several hours. The remaining blood is returned to the donor. Recovery of normal bone marrow function may take two thirds the time that whole bone marrow transplantation takes. In addition, there may be less contamination by malignant cells in peripheral blood than in bone marrow. Because of shorter hospital stays, stem-cell transplantation is also less expensive and may involve less dependency on additional blood and medications.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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Toremifene and letrozole for advanced breast cancer
Article Abstract:
Toremifene and letrozole have been approved by FDA for treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Toremifene blocks the effect of estrogen hormones on the growth of some tumors, and is modestly effective in some women. Letrozole inhibits the synthesis of estrogen hormones, and may also reduce disease and improve survival in some breast cancer patients. Toremifene is sold by Schering under the trade name Fareston and letrozole is sold by Novartis under the trade name Femara.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1998
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