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Ghosh P, Patari N, Manisha C, Basavan D, Petchiappan V, Justin A. Reversal mechanism of multidrug-resistant cancer cells by lectin as chemo-adjuvant and targeted therapy- a systematic review. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155205. [PMID: 37980807 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is characterized as the leading cause of death, and the susceptibility of cancer cells to develop resistance due to long-term exposure to complementary chemotherapeutic treatment is referred to as multidrug resistance cancer cells (MDRC), which is a significant obstacle in the treatment of malignancies. Since complementary medicine lost its effectiveness, the development of potential alternative and novel therapeutic approaches has been elevated to a top priority in recent years. In this context, a bioactive protein lectin from plant and animal sources exhibits an invaluable source of anticancer agents with vast therapeutic potential. PURPOSE This manuscript's primary purpose is to enlighten the evidence-based (from 1986 to 2022) possible molecular mechanism of alternative treatment approaches using lectins over the complementary medicines used for cancer treatment. METHODS The PRISMA rules have been followed properly and qualitative and quantitative data are synthesized systematically. Articles were identified based on Clinical and preclinical reports published on lectin that investigated the in-depth cellular mechanisms, of reverse drug integrative oncology, as a nano-carried targeted delivery. Articles were systematically screened from 1986 to 2022 and selected based on electronic database searches, Medline (PubMed), Google Scholar, Web of Science, Encyclopaedias, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov database. RESULTS The search turned up 4,212 publications from 38 different nations, of which 170 reference articles were used in our analysis, in 16 combination therapy and their mode of action, and 27 clinical trial studies including dosage and mechanism of action were included. Reports from the 30 lectins belonging to 28 different families have been included. The reversal mechanism of lectin and alternative therapy against MDRC is critically screened and according to a few clinical and preclinical reports, lectin can suppress the overexpressing genes like P-53, EGFR, and P-gp, MRP, and ABC transporter proteins associated with intracellular transportation of drugs. Since, the drug efflux mechanism leads to MDRC, in this phenomenon, lectin plays a key role in reversing the efflux mechanism. Few preclinical reports have mentioned that lectin shows synergism in combination with complementary medicine and as a nano drug carrier helps to deliver to the targeted site. CONCLUSION We have discussed the alternative therapy using lectin and an in-depth insight into the reversal drug resistance mechanisms to combat MDRC cancer, enhance the efficacy, reduce toxicity and adverse events, and ensure targeted delivery, and their application in the field of cancer diagnosis and prognosis has been discussed. However, further investigation is necessary in drug development and clinical trials which could be helpful to elaborate the reversal mechanism and unlock newer treatment modalities in MDRC cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puja Ghosh
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu 643 001, India
| | - Niloy Patari
- Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, West Virginia University, USA
| | - Chennu Manisha
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu 643 001, India
| | - Duraiswamy Basavan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, Najwal, Vijaypur, Jammu 184 120, India
| | - Velammal Petchiappan
- Department of General Medicine, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 004, India
| | - Antony Justin
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu 643 001, India.
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Loef M, Paepke D, Walach H. Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients Treated With Mistletoe Extracts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Integr Cancer Ther 2023; 22:15347354231198074. [PMID: 37888846 PMCID: PMC10612442 DOI: 10.1177/15347354231198074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in women and quality of life an essential part of patients' well-being. Although the treatment with mistletoe extracts is covered by multiple cancer guidelines and reviews, it is uncertain whether mistletoe extracts can improve the quality of life in breast cancer patients. We therefore performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on this topic. METHODS This systematic review included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies of intervention (NRSIs) comparing the quality of life in breast cancer patients treated with mistletoe extracts as add-on therapy to control groups treated conventionally. We searched previous systematic reviews and multiple databases until January 2023. We conducted a meta-analysis and assessed the risk of bias according to the Cochrane Handbook via RoB 2 and ROBINS-I and the certainty of evidence via GRADE, respectively. RESULTS Nine RCTs and 7 NRSIs with 833 and 2831 participants, respectively, were included. The pre-post changes for the quality of life resulted in a pooled standardized mean difference for RCTs of SMD = 0.61 (95% CI 0.47-0.75; P < .0001) and for retrospective NRSIs of SMD = 0.46 (95% CI 0.10-0.82; P = .01). The risk of bias was low to high for the RCTs and serious for all NRSIs. The certainty of evidence was moderate for RCTs and very low for NRSIs. DISCUSSION Our results indicate a clinically relevant, medium-sized effect of mistletoe extracts on the quality of life in breast cancer patients which may be based on the immunomodulating effects of mistletoe extracts during chemotherapy. The limitations of evidence include the risk of bias which is mainly caused by the difficulty of blinding. Further RCTs and real-world evidence need to confirm this result, especially in the setting of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and in breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Harald Walach
- CHS Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Next Society Institute, Kazimieras Simonavicius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Systematic analysis of mistletoe prescriptions in clinical studies. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04511-2. [PMID: 36481925 PMCID: PMC10356894 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Mistletoe treatment is discussed controversial as a complementary treatment for cancer patients. Aim of this systematic analysis is to assess the concept of mistletoe treatment in the clinical studies with respect to indication, type of mistletoe preparation, treatment schedule, aim of treatment, and assessment of treatment results.
Methods
In the period from August to December 2020, the following databases were systematically searched: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PsycINFO, CINAHL, and “Science Citation Index Expanded” (Web of Science). We assessed all studies for study types, methods, endpoints and mistletoe preparations including their ways of application, host trees and dosage schedules.
Results
The search concerning mistletoe therapy revealed 3296 hits. Of these, 102 publications and at total of 19.441 patients were included. We included several study types investigating the application of mistletoe in different groups of participants (cancer patients of any type of cancer were included as well as studies conducted with healthy volunteers and pediatric patients). The most common types of cancer were breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer and malignant melanoma. Randomized controlled studies, cohort studies and case reports make up most of the included studies. A huge variety was observed concerning type and composition of mistletoe extracts (differing pharmaceutical companies and host trees), ways of applications and dosage schedules. Administration varied e. g. between using mistletoe extract as sole treatment and as concomitant therapy to cancer treatment. As the analysis of all studies shows, there is no relationship between mistletoe preparation used, host tree and dosage, and cancer type.
Conclusions
Our research was not able to deviate transparent rules or guidelines with respect to mistletoe treatment in cancer care.
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Pelzer F, Loef M, Martin DD, Baumgartner S. Cancer-related fatigue in patients treated with mistletoe extracts: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:6405-6418. [PMID: 35239008 PMCID: PMC9213316 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06921-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer-related fatigue remains one of the most prevalent and distressing symptoms experienced by cancer patients. Effective treatments for cancer-related fatigue are needed. The objective of this meta-analysis is to determine the impact of mistletoe extracts as a pharmacological treatment for the management of cancer-related fatigue. METHODS We included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSIs) in cancer patients. Inclusion criteria were cancer-related fatigue severity or prevalence as an outcome and testing of mistletoe extracts compared to control groups. We searched Medline (EuropePMC), Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Clinicaltrials.gov, and opengrey.org through October 2020. We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tools for RCTs and NRSIs and conducted a meta-analysis. RESULTS We performed one meta-analysis with 12 RCTs, including 1494 participants, and one meta-analysis with seven retrospective NRSIs, including 2668 participants. Heterogeneity between the studies was high in both meta-analyses. Most studies had a high risk of bias. A random-effects model showed for RCTs a standardized mean difference of -0.48 (95% confidence interval -0.82 to -0.14; p = 0.006) and for NRSIs an odds ratio of 0.36 (95% confidence interval 0.20 to 0.66; p = 0.0008). CONCLUSION Treatment with mistletoe extracts shows a moderate effect on cancer-related fatigue of similar size to physical activity. These results need to be confirmed by more placebo-controlled trials. Future trials should investigate different treatment durations and their effect on cancer-related fatigue in post-treatment cancer survivors. TRIAL REGISTRATION This meta-analysis has been registered under the PROSPERO registration number CRD42020191967 on October 7, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Pelzer
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
- Society for Cancer Research, Arlesheim, Switzerland.
| | | | - David D Martin
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Stephan Baumgartner
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- Society for Cancer Research, Arlesheim, Switzerland
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Schnell-Inderst P, Steigenberger C, Mertz M, Otto I, Flatscher-Thöni M, Siebert U. Additional treatment with mistletoe extracts for patients with breast cancer compared to conventional cancer therapy alone - efficacy and safety, costs and cost-effectiveness, patients and social aspects, and ethical assessment. GERMAN MEDICAL SCIENCE : GMS E-JOURNAL 2022; 20:Doc10. [PMID: 36160875 PMCID: PMC9487779 DOI: 10.3205/000312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background Chemotherapy is often used in the treatment of breast cancer in women. Side effects such as diarrhea, fatigue, hair loss, fever or disturbances in blood formation impair the women's quality of life. An essential treatment goal of the accompanying mistletoe therapy (MT) used in complementary medicine is to improve the health-related quality of life during cancer therapy. Aim and methods The HTA report on which this article is based examines the medical efficacy and safety, costs and cost-effectiveness, patient and social aspects, and ethical aspects of MT in women with breast cancer. Systematic reviews were conducted for this purpose. The search period of the literature search ranged from 2004 to October 2020. Results A total of 2 evidence-based medical guidelines, 3 randomized trials assessing efficacy and 1 additional non-randomized intervention trial, as well as 3 observational studies assessing safety, a cost analysis, 12 cross-sectional studies on patient aspects and 17 articles on ethical evaluation were included. Improvements in health-related quality of life compared to the control group were small to moderate. Due to the high risk of bias in the studies, it is possible that the difference is not caused by MT. One study with a small sample size showed no effect on progression-free survival after 5 years. Studies on the effect of MT on overall survival are lacking. In seven studies, local skin reactions of low and moderate severity were reported in a median of 25% (range 5 to 94%) of patients, and mild to moderate systemic reactions in a median of 2% (range 0 to 8%) of patients. A comparative cost analysis from Germany reported significantly lower medical costs within 5 years after surgery for patients with MT than for patients without MT, but the underlying observational study did not control for systematic bias. With regard to patient aspects, the frequency of use and the reasons for use from the patient's or practitioner's point of view were mainly investigated. A median of 25% (range 7 to 46%) of patients with breast cancer and 29% (range 29 to 79%) of treatment providers use MT. The main motivations of patients for use were to reduce side effects, strengthen the immune system and take an active role in the treatment process. Patients felt insufficiently advised. Studies on other aspects are lacking. The ethical evaluation was able to identify 6 overarching themes; the central challenge is the insufficient evidence on efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Schnell-Inderst
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, Department of Public Health, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall i. T., Austria
| | - Caroline Steigenberger
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, Department of Public Health, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall i. T., Austria
| | - Marcel Mertz
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ilvie Otto
- Institute for Ethics, History and Philosophy of Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Magdalena Flatscher-Thöni
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, Department of Public Health, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall i. T., Austria
| | - Uwe Siebert
- Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, Department of Public Health, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall i. T., Austria
- Institute for Technology Assessment and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Center for Health Decision Science, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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Gadisa DA, Wang SH, Yimer G. The Impact of AC and AC-T Chemotherapy's Toxicities on Quality of Life Among Women with Breast Cancer in Ethiopia: A Prospective Patient-Reported Outcomes Study. BREAST CANCER (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS) 2021; 13:107-132. [PMID: 33658844 PMCID: PMC7917350 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s289014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to evaluate the quality of life patterns and the effects of AC and AC-T chemotherapy's toxicities on QoL among Ethiopian women with breast cancer. METHODS QoL was measured at baseline and at every end of two cycles, for the median of 8 cycles among 146 breast cancer women on AC and AC-T chemotherapy, using EORTC QLQ-C30 and BR23 instruments. The effect of QoL score, socio-demographic, and clinical variables at baseline were adjusted for the effect of chemotherapy's toxicities on QoL. RESULTS Overall QoL, all functional scales (except cognitive functioning, body image, future perspectives, and sexual functioning) and symptom scales (except dyspnea, insomnia, pain score, arm, and breast symptoms) of EORTC QLQ-C30 and BR23 deteriorated significantly both clinically and statistically, in particular, during the first two cycles of chemotherapy. After the end of cycle 2 or 4, except for cognitive, social functioning, and financial difficulties of the patients, almost all other QoL dimensions were improved towards pretreatment score by the end of cycle 8. In addition to age, educational status, and tumor stage, the Global Health Status (-10.55≤B≤-7.71, P≤0.013), and the functional scales (-25.320≤B≤-6.351, P≤0.033) of EORTC QLQ-C30 and BR23 were significantly affected at least by one of the AC and AC-T chemotherapy's toxicity such as grade≥2 fatigue, dysgeusia, constipation, dry mouth, vomiting, oral mucositis, skin hyperpigmentation and/or peripheral neuropathy than their lower grade. Grade≥2 fatigue, dysgeusia, oral mucositis, constipation, peripheral neuropathy, anemia arthralgia/myalgia, dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, and/or skin hyperpigmentation were positively predicted for the deterioration of symptoms scale of EORTC QLQ-C30 and BR23 (4.819≤B≤26.451, P≤0.043). CONCLUSION Quality of life among Ethiopian breast cancer patients on AC and AC-T regimens significantly deteriorated particularly during the first two cycles of chemotherapy. In addition to the age, tumor stage and educational status of the patients, grade≥2 fatigue, dysgeusia, constipation, oral mucositis, dry mouth, peripheral neuropathy, and skin hyperpigmentation due to AC and AC-T chemotherapy were frequently associated with deterioration of different scales/items QoL. Hence, devising different strategies to improve the deteriorated QoL due to chemotherapy's toxicities particularly during the first two cycles has paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diriba Alemayehu Gadisa
- Pharmacy Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
| | - Shu-Hua Wang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Ben Franklin TB Control Program, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Getnet Yimer
- Ohio State Global One Health Initiative, Office of International Affairs, The Ohio State University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Reynel M, Villegas Y, Werthmann PG, Kiene H, Kienle GS. Long-Term Survival of a Patient with Recurrent Dedifferentiated High-Grade Liposarcoma of the Retroperitoneum Under Adjuvant Treatment with Viscum album L. Extract: A Case Report. Integr Cancer Ther 2021; 20:1534735421995258. [PMID: 33618582 PMCID: PMC7905720 DOI: 10.1177/1534735421995258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retroperitoneal sarcomas are rare. Dedifferentiated liposarcomas (DDLs) are high-grade tumors with a high propensity for local recurrence and metastasis and are associated with reduced survival. Radical resection remains the standard treatment of sarcomas. Meanwhile, Viscum album L. extract (VAE) is used in cancer patients owing to its cytostatic and immunomodulating effects and to its ability to improve patients’ quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paul G Werthmann
- Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the University of Witten/Herdecke, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Complementary Medicine, Institute for Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Helmut Kiene
- Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the University of Witten/Herdecke, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gunver S Kienle
- Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology at the University of Witten/Herdecke, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Complementary Medicine, Institute for Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Schmidt G, Mathes S, Klein E, Kiechle M, Paepke D. Evaluation of an Expert Guided Integrative Therapy Concept in Patients With Breast or Gynecological Cancer During Systemic Therapy. J Evid Based Integr Med 2020; 25:2515690X20949444. [PMID: 32808558 PMCID: PMC7436788 DOI: 10.1177/2515690x20949444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose. Breast and gynecological cancer patients undergoing systemic therapy frequently request integrative therapy concepts. The potential of integrative therapy (IM) lies in minimizing side effects of conventional cancer treatments and therefore decreasing treatment delays. IM can help to improve patients’ physical and emotional well-being, optimizing health and quality of life as IM involves patients in their own treatment. A counseling service for integrative medicine concepts as an outpatient program was implemented in our cancer center in 2013. Methods. In 2016 and 2017 144 breast and gynecological cancer patients were included into our specific IM program. The program comprises biological based complementary and alternative medicines (BB-CAM), a structured exercise therapy, manipulative and body-based practices, nutritional counseling, psycho-oncological and relaxing therapies. Therapists with additional specialization for IM, guide the treatment units. The program was evaluated via self-administered questionnaire. Results. 78% of the participating patients noticed an improvement by using BB-CAMs. 86% stated to feel better through participation in the structured exercise program. 74% profited from nutritional counseling and 91% from manual therapy. 93% of the patients treated with body compresses considered the application as soothing. The Bio-Frequency Sound Color Bed led to a relaxation in 96%. Psychological therapy improved coping with the disease in 70% of the patients. Conclusion. Integrative oncology combines the best practices of conventional and complementary therapy, uniting them in a holistic concept. Data show that our integrative therapy concept is well accepted by the patients and that therapy- and disease-related side effects can be reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Schmidt
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCTUM), TU Munich, Germany
| | - Sofia Mathes
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCTUM), TU Munich, Germany
| | - Evelyn Klein
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCTUM), TU Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Kiechle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCTUM), TU Munich, Germany
| | - Daniela Paepke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCCTUM), TU Munich, Germany
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Loef M, Walach H. Quality of life in cancer patients treated with mistletoe: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:227. [PMID: 32690087 PMCID: PMC7370416 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03013-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mistletoe extracts are used as an adjunct therapy for cancer patients, but there is dissent as to whether this therapy has a positive impact on quality of life (QoL). METHODS We conducted a systematic review searching in several databases (Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Science Citation Index, clinicaltrials.gov, opengrey.org ) by combining terms that cover the fields of "neoplasm", "quality of life" and "mistletoe". We included prospective controlled trials that compared mistletoe extracts with a control in cancer patients and reported QoL or related dimensions. The quality of the studies was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2. We conducted a quantitative meta-analysis. RESULTS We included 26 publications with 30 data sets. The studies were heterogeneous. The pooled standardized mean difference (random effects model) for global QoL after treatment with mistletoe extracts vs. control was d = 0.61 (95% CI 0.41-0.81, p < 0,00001). The effect was stronger for younger patients, with longer treatment, in studies with lower risk of bias, in randomized and blinded studies. Sensitivity analyses support the validity of the finding. 50% of the QoL subdomains (e.g. pain, nausea) show a significant improvement after mistletoe treatment. Most studies have a high risk of bias or at least raise some concern. CONCLUSION Mistletoe extracts produce a significant, medium-sized effect on QoL in cancer. Risk of bias in the analyzed studies is likely due to the specific type of treatment, which is difficult to blind; yet this risk is unlikely to affect the outcome. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42019137704 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Loef
- CHS-Institut, Schönwalder Str. 17, D-13347, Berlin, Germany
| | - Harald Walach
- CHS-Institut, Schönwalder Str. 17, D-13347, Berlin, Germany. .,Department Pediatric Gastroenterology, Poznan Medical University, Poznan, Poland. .,Department Psychologie, Universität Witten-Herdecke, Witten, Germany.
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Matthes H, Thronicke A, Hofheinz RD, Baars E, Martin D, Huber R, Breitkreuz T, Bar-Sela G, Galun D, Schad F. Statement to an Insufficient Systematic Review on Viscum album L. Therapy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2020; 2020:7091039. [PMID: 32148549 PMCID: PMC7049420 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7091039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 88% of oncological patients apply complementary therapies and up to 77% apply complementary mistletoe therapy in the context of integrative oncological approaches. An evidence-based consultation of oncological health professionals regarding complementary therapies used in Germany is missing. Therefore, a new S3-Guideline for Complementary Medicine in the Treatment of Oncological Patients is under development and is anticipated to be finalized in November 2020. It will be based on evidence-based publications and systematic reviews on complementary therapies in oncology. A recently published two-part systematic review on mistletoe treatment in oncology has been reevaluated. METHODS The latest published systematic two-part review on mistletoe has been systematically proofread and checked in compliance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention and the AMSTAR 2 (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) tool. RESULTS The here discussed two-part review is incomplete, lacks sound accuracy including insufficient assessment of the risk of bias, and contains imprecise statements. In addition, it does not sufficiently comply with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention and the AMSTAR 2 tool. CONCLUSION In view of the approaching release of a new guideline in the field of complementary therapies in oncology, the present statement draws attention to a lack of profound methodology of conductance of a recently released systematic review on mistletoe. In consequence, a comprehensive overview of published mistletoe studies, i.e., a meta-analysis with a sound methodology of conductance, is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Matthes
- Oncological Centre, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics and Medical Department of Gastroenterology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Research Institute Havelhöhe, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja Thronicke
- Research Institute Havelhöhe, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf-Dieter Hofheinz
- Interdisciplinary Tumour Centre Mannheim, University Medicine of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Erik Baars
- Louis Bolk Institute, Bunnik, Netherlands
| | - David Martin
- Gerhard Kienle Chair for Medical Theory, Integrative and Anthroposophical Medicine, Department of Human Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten/Herdecke, Germany
| | - Roman Huber
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Institute for Infection, Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology, University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Breitkreuz
- Hospital Filderklinik, Stuttgart, Germany
- Hospital Paracelsus Krankenhaus, Bad Liebenzell, Germany
| | | | - Daniel Galun
- Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade and Medical School, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Friedemann Schad
- Oncological Centre, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
- Research Institute Havelhöhe, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Oncology and Palliative Care, Hospital Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
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Freuding M, Keinki C, Micke O, Buentzel J, Huebner J. Mistletoe in oncological treatment: a systematic review : Part 1: survival and safety. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 145:695-707. [PMID: 30673873 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-018-02837-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mistletoe treatment of cancer patients is discussed highly controversial in the scientific literature. Aim of this systematic review is to give an extensive overview about current state of research concerning mistletoe therapy of oncologic patients regarding survival, quality of life and safety. METHODS In September and October 2017 Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PsycINFO, CINAHL and "Science Citation Index Expanded" (Web of Science) were systematically searched. RESULTS The search strategy identified 3647 hits and 28 publications with 2639 patients were finally included in this review. Mistletoe was used in bladder cancer, breast cancer, other gynecological cancers (cervical cancer, corpus uteri cancer, and ovarian cancer), colorectal cancer, other gastrointestinal cancer (gastric cancer and pancreatic cancer), glioma, head and neck cancer, lung cancer, melanoma and osteosarcoma. In nearly all studies, mistletoe was added to a conventional therapy. Patient relevant endpoints were overall survival (14 studies, n = 1054), progression- or disease-free survival or tumor response (10 studies, n = 1091). Most studies did not show any effect of mistletoe on survival. Especially high quality studies do not show any benefit. CONCLUSIONS With respect to survival, a thorough review of the literature does not provide any indication to prescribe mistletoe to patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Freuding
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - C Keinki
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - O Micke
- Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Franziskus Hospital, Kiskerstraße 26, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - J Buentzel
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Südharzklinikum Nordhausen, Dr.-Robert-Koch-Straße 39, 99734, Nordhausen, Germany
| | - Jutta Huebner
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
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Pelzer F, Tröger W, Nat DR. Complementary Treatment with Mistletoe Extracts During Chemotherapy: Safety, Neutropenia, Fever, and Quality of Life Assessed in a Randomized Study. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:954-961. [PMID: 30247950 PMCID: PMC6157372 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Evaluate the safety and clinical response of complementary treatment with European mistletoe extracts during chemotherapy. Design: Monocentric controlled trial with 95 patients randomized into three groups. Settings/Location: National Cancer Research Center of Serbia. Subjects: Breast cancer patients (stage T1–3N0–2M0) undergoing surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy with six cycles of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, and 5-fluorouracil. Interventions: Two different European mistletoe extracts (Helixor A, Iscador M Spez) were injected three times per week during 18 weeks of chemotherapy in the mistletoe group. Five-year follow-up of routine visits was documented in case report forms. Outcome measures: Safety was assessed by measuring adverse events, body temperature during chemotherapy, and probability of relapse or metastasis in a 5-year follow-up. During chemotherapy, the neutrophil count and quality of life according to EORTC QLQ-C30 were assessed. Results: The two patient groups receiving different complementary mistletoe treatments were integrated into one mistletoe group for this safety analysis. Patients in the mistletoe group did not develop more fever symptoms than patients in the control group (two short-term events in each group). No significant differences in probability of relapse or metastasis were measured between the groups (p = 0.7637). The mistletoe group showed a trend toward less neutropenia (p = 0.178) and improved pain and appetite loss scores (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.047, respectively) while having positive, but not significant, impact on other EORTC QLQ-C30 scores. Conclusions: Mistletoe extracts were safe in this clinical study. Neither did subcutaneous injections induce fever, nor did they influence the frequency of relapse and metastasis within 5 years. This result suggests that mistletoe extracts had no adverse interactions with the anticancer agents used in this study. Furthermore, certain side effects of chemotherapy decreased under this complementary treatment in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Pelzer
- 1 Society for Cancer Research, Hiscia Institute , Arlesheim, Switzerland
| | | | - Dr Rer Nat
- 2 Clinical Research Dr. Tröger (CRDT) , Freiburg, Germany
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13
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Tomlinson D, Robinson P, Oberoi S, Cataudella D, Culos-Reed N, Davis H, Duong N, Gibson F, Götte M, Hinds P, Nijhof S, van der Torre P, Cabral S, Dupuis L, Sung L. Pharmacologic interventions for fatigue in cancer and transplantation: a meta-analysis. Curr Oncol 2018; 25:e152-e167. [PMID: 29719440 PMCID: PMC5927795 DOI: 10.3747/co.25.3883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Our objective was to determine whether, compared with control interventions, pharmacologic interventions reduce the severity of fatigue in patients with cancer or recipients of hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (hsct). Methods For a systematic review, we searched medline, embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, cinahl, and Psychinfo for randomized trials of systemic pharmacologic interventions for the management of fatigue in patients with cancer or recipients of hsct. Two authors independently identified studies and abstracted data. Methodologic quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The primary outcome was fatigue severity measured using various fatigue scales. Data were synthesized using random-effects models. Results In the 117 included trials (19,819 patients), the pharmacologic agents used were erythropoietins (n = 31), stimulants (n = 19), l-carnitine (n = 6), corticosteroids (n = 5), antidepressants (n = 5), appetite stimulants (n = 3), and other agents (n = 48). Fatigue was significantly reduced with erythropoietin [standardized mean difference (smd): -0.52; 95% confidence interval (ci): -0.89 to -0.14] and with methylphenidate (smd: -0.36; 95% ci: -0.56 to -0.15); modafinil (or armodafinil) and corticosteroids were not effective. Conclusions Erythropoietin and methylphenidate significantly reduced fatigue severity in patients with cancer and in recipients of hsct. Concerns about the safety of those agents might limit their usefulness. Future research should identify effective interventions for fatigue that have minimal adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Tomlinson
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
| | | | - S. Oberoi
- Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario, Toronto, ON
| | - D. Cataudella
- Department of Pediatric Psychology, Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - N. Culos-Reed
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB
| | - H. Davis
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
| | - N. Duong
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
| | - F. Gibson
- Centre for Outcomes and Experiences Research in Children’s Health, Illness, and Disability, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, and School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, U.K
| | - M. Götte
- University Hospital Essen, Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Essen, Germany
| | - P. Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice, and Quality, Children’s National Health System; and Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University, Washington, DC, U.S.A
| | - S.L. Nijhof
- Division of Pediatrics, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (part of UMC Utrecht), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - P. van der Torre
- Division of Pediatrics, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (part of UMC Utrecht), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - S. Cabral
- Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario, Toronto, ON
| | - L.L. Dupuis
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
- Department of Pharmacy, The Hospital for Sick Children; and Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
| | - L. Sung
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
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14
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Schink M, Dehus O. Effects of mistletoe products on pharmacokinetic drug turnover by inhibition and induction of cytochrome P450 activities. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 17:521. [PMID: 29202738 PMCID: PMC5715639 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-2028-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background European mistletoe (Viscum album) products used in cancer therapy are frequently combined with other anti-cancer-drugs. Hence, potential herb-drug interactions have become a major safety concern in mistletoe therapy. Methods Three European mistletoe products (Helixor® A, Helixor® M and Helixor® P from mistletoe grown on firs, apple trees and pines, respectively) were tested for inhibition of nine major cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes in a test system using pooled human liver microsomes and for induction of five CYP isoforms in human hepatocytes cultivated in vitro according to the relevant guideline. Results Major inhibition did not occur in any of the CYP marker reactions. For some CYP isoenzymes, a minor or intermediate inhibition could be observed, but without dose effect relationship. Induction activity (≥ 1.5-fold increase) was not found with any of the three mistletoe products. Conclusion Since no induction capacity was found and major inhibition above 50% did not occur even with the highest concentration used, which is approximately 100,000-fold higher than the clinically relevant dose in plasma, a clinically relevant herb-drug interaction is not expected for Helixor® A, M, and P.
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15
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Srdic-Rajic T, Santibañez JF, Kanjer K, Tisma-Miletic N, Cavic M, Galun D, Jevric M, Kardum N, Konic-Ristic A, Zoranovic T. Iscador Qu inhibits doxorubicin-induced senescence of MCF7 cells. Sci Rep 2017. [PMID: 28630419 PMCID: PMC5476621 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy in patients with inoperable or advanced breast cancer inevitably results in low-dose exposure of tumor-cell subset and senescence. Metabolically active senescent cells secrete multiple tumor promoting factors making their elimination a therapeutic priority. Viscum album is one of the most widely used alternative anti-cancer medicines facilitating chemotherapy tolerance of breast cancer patients. The aim of this study was to model and investigate how Viscum album extracts execute additive anti-tumor activity with low-dose Dox using ER + MCF7 breast cancer cells. We report that cotreatment of MCF7 with Viscum album and Dox abrogates G2/M cycle arrest replacing senescence with intrinsic apoptotic program. Mechanistically, this switch was associated with down-regulation of p21, p53/p73 as well as Erk1/2 and p38 activation. Our findings, therefore, identify a novel mechanistic axis of additive antitumor activity of Viscum album and low dose-Dox. In conclusion, ER + breast cancer patients may benefit from addition of Viscum album to low-dose Dox chemotherapy due to suppression of cancer cell senescence and induction of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Srdic-Rajic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan F Santibañez
- Laboratory for Experimental Hematology and Stem Cells, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.,Laboratorio de Bionanotecnologia, Universidad Bernardo O Higgins, General Gana 1780, 8370854, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ksenija Kanjer
- Department of Experimental Oncology, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nevena Tisma-Miletic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Cavic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Daniel Galun
- University Clinic for Digestive Surgery, Clinical center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Medical School, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Jevric
- Department of Surgery, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nevena Kardum
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Konic-Ristic
- Institute for Medical Research, Center of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Zoranovic
- Department of Experimental Oncology, National Cancer Research Center, Belgrade, Serbia. .,Max Plank Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin Area, Germany.
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16
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Greenlee H, DuPont-Reyes MJ, Balneaves LG, Carlson LE, Cohen MR, Deng G, Johnson JA, Mumber M, Seely D, Zick SM, Boyce LM, Tripathy D. Clinical practice guidelines on the evidence-based use of integrative therapies during and after breast cancer treatment. CA Cancer J Clin 2017; 67:194-232. [PMID: 28436999 PMCID: PMC5892208 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 420] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Answer questions and earn CME/CNE Patients with breast cancer commonly use complementary and integrative therapies as supportive care during cancer treatment and to manage treatment-related side effects. However, evidence supporting the use of such therapies in the oncology setting is limited. This report provides updated clinical practice guidelines from the Society for Integrative Oncology on the use of integrative therapies for specific clinical indications during and after breast cancer treatment, including anxiety/stress, depression/mood disorders, fatigue, quality of life/physical functioning, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, lymphedema, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, pain, and sleep disturbance. Clinical practice guidelines are based on a systematic literature review from 1990 through 2015. Music therapy, meditation, stress management, and yoga are recommended for anxiety/stress reduction. Meditation, relaxation, yoga, massage, and music therapy are recommended for depression/mood disorders. Meditation and yoga are recommended to improve quality of life. Acupressure and acupuncture are recommended for reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Acetyl-L-carnitine is not recommended to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy due to a possibility of harm. No strong evidence supports the use of ingested dietary supplements to manage breast cancer treatment-related side effects. In summary, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of integrative therapies, especially mind-body therapies, as effective supportive care strategies during breast cancer treatment. Many integrative practices, however, remain understudied, with insufficient evidence to be definitively recommended or avoided. CA Cancer J Clin 2017;67:194-232. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Greenlee
- Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Member, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Melissa J DuPont-Reyes
- Doctoral Fellow, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- Associate Professor, College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Linda E Carlson
- Professor, Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Misha R Cohen
- Adjunct Professor, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine at California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA
- Clinic Director, Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Gary Deng
- Medical Director, Integrative Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jillian A Johnson
- Post-Doctoral Scholar, Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | | | - Dugald Seely
- Executive Director, Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Executive Director of Research, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suzanna M Zick
- Research Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Research Associate Professor, Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Lindsay M Boyce
- Research Informationist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Library, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Debu Tripathy
- Professor, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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17
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Greenlee H, Balneaves LG, Carlson LE, Cohen M, Deng G, Hershman D, Mumber M, Perlmutter J, Seely D, Sen A, Zick SM, Tripathy D. Clinical practice guidelines on the use of integrative therapies as supportive care in patients treated for breast cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2015; 2014:346-58. [PMID: 25749602 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgu041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of breast cancer patients use complementary and/or integrative therapies during and beyond cancer treatment to manage symptoms, prevent toxicities, and improve quality of life. Practice guidelines are needed to inform clinicians and patients about safe and effective therapies. METHODS Following the Institute of Medicine's guideline development process, a systematic review identified randomized controlled trials testing the use of integrative therapies for supportive care in patients receiving breast cancer treatment. Trials were included if the majority of participants had breast cancer and/or breast cancer patient results were reported separately, and outcomes were clinically relevant. Recommendations were organized by outcome and graded based upon a modified version of the US Preventive Services Task Force grading system. RESULTS The search (January 1, 1990-December 31, 2013) identified 4900 articles, of which 203 were eligible for analysis. Meditation, yoga, and relaxation with imagery are recommended for routine use for common conditions, including anxiety and mood disorders (Grade A). Stress management, yoga, massage, music therapy, energy conservation, and meditation are recommended for stress reduction, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and quality of life (Grade B). Many interventions (n = 32) had weaker evidence of benefit (Grade C). Some interventions (n = 7) were deemed unlikely to provide any benefit (Grade D). Notably, only one intervention, acetyl-l-carnitine for the prevention of taxane-induced neuropathy, was identified as likely harmful (Grade H) as it was found to increase neuropathy. The majority of intervention/modality combinations (n = 138) did not have sufficient evidence to form specific recommendations (Grade I). CONCLUSIONS Specific integrative therapies can be recommended as evidence-based supportive care options during breast cancer treatment. Most integrative therapies require further investigation via well-designed controlled trials with meaningful outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Greenlee
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT).
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Linda E Carlson
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Misha Cohen
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Gary Deng
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Dawn Hershman
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Matthew Mumber
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Jane Perlmutter
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Dugald Seely
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Ananda Sen
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Suzanna M Zick
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
| | - Debu Tripathy
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health (HG, DH), Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, (HG, DH), and Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons (DH), Columbia University, New York, NY (HG, DH); School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada (LGB); Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada (LEC); Institute for Health and Aging, University of California San Francisco, CA (MC); Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA (MC); Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY (GD); Harbin Clinic, Rome, GA (MM); Gemini Group, Ann Arbor, MI (JP); Ottawa Integrative Cancer Center, Ottawa, ON, Canada (DS); Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada (DS); Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System (AS, SMZ), Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health (SMZ), and Department of Biostatistics (AS), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (AS, SMZ); Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (DT)
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Marvibaigi M, Supriyanto E, Amini N, Abdul Majid FA, Jaganathan SK. Preclinical and clinical effects of mistletoe against breast cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:785479. [PMID: 25136622 PMCID: PMC4127267 DOI: 10.1155/2014/785479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is among the most frequent types of cancer in women worldwide. Current conventional treatment options are accompanied by side effects. Mistletoe is amongst the important herbal medicines traditionally used as complementary remedies. An increasing number of studies have reported anticancer activity of mistletoe extracts on breast cancer cells and animal models. Some recent evidence suggests that cytotoxic activity of mistletoe may be mediated through different mechanisms. These findings provide a good base for clinical trials. Various studies on mistletoe therapy for breast cancer patients revealed similar findings concerning possible benefits on survival time, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), remission rate, and alleviating adverse reactions to conventional therapy. This review provides an overview of the recent findings on preclinical experiments and clinical trials of mistletoe for its cytotoxic and antitumor activity and its effect on HRQoL in breast cancer patients. Moreover, studies investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying antitumor activity of mistletoe are discussed in this paper. The analyzed trials provided evidence that there might be a combination of pharmacological and motivational aspects mediated by the mistletoe extract application which may contribute to the clinical benefit and positive outcome such as improved HRQoL and self-regulation in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Marvibaigi
- IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Center, Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Eko Supriyanto
- IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Center, Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Neda Amini
- IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Center, Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Fadzilah Adibah Abdul Majid
- Bioprocess Engineering Department, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Saravana Kumar Jaganathan
- IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Center, Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
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Additional Therapy with a Mistletoe Product during Adjuvant Chemotherapy of Breast Cancer Patients Improves Quality of Life: An Open Randomized Clinical Pilot Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:430518. [PMID: 24701238 PMCID: PMC3950471 DOI: 10.1155/2014/430518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 12/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background. Breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy often experience a loss of quality of life. Moreover chemotherapy may induce neutropenia. Patients report a better quality of life when additionally treated with mistletoe products during chemotherapy. Methods. In this prospective randomized open-label pilot study 95 patients were randomized into three groups. All patients were treated with an adjuvant chemotherapy. The primary objective of the study was quality of life, the secondary objective was neutropenia. Here we report the comparison of HxA (n = 34) versus untreated control (n = 31). Results. In the explorative analysis ten of 15 scores of the EORTC QLQ-C30 showed a better quality of life in the HxA group compared to the control group (P < 0.001 to P = 0.038 in Dunnett-T3 test). The difference was clinically relevant (difference of at least 5 points, range 5.4–12.2) in eight of the ten scores. Neutropenia occurred in 7/34 HxA patients and in 8/31 control patients (P = 0.628). Conclusions. This pilot study showed an improvement of quality of life by treating breast cancer patients with HxA additionally to CAF. Although the open design may be a limitation, the findings show the feasibility of a confirmatory study using the methods described here.
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Abstract
Mistletoes are a group of obligate plant semi-parasites in the order Santalales. These clumps of plants growing on a wide range of host plants have been traditionally regarded as medicinal repositories. However, current scientific discoveries have validated their health potentials like never before. Their extracts containing alkaloids, viscotoxins, lectins, and polysaccharides have been evidenced to possess a myriad biological potentials including cancer inhibition. Mistletoes have emerged as promising alternative therapy against colon, oral, lung, and pancreas cancers. The plant extracts bolster immunity, delay tumour initiation and progression, kill malignant tumours, stabilize DNA, alleviate side effects of chemotherapeutics, improve the lifespan, and coping ability of cancer patients and survivors. A range of proprietary formulations viz. Iscador, Eurixor, Helixor, Lektinol, Isorel, Iscucin, Abnoba-viscum and recombinant lectin ML-1 are already being commercialized. This review presents an informative account on the recent developments in mistletoe-mediated cancer management. The underlying mechanisms, possibilities and limitations in cancer therapeutic development are outlined for kindling both researcher and public interest.
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Damodar G, Gopinath S, Vijayakumar S, Rao AY. Reasons for low quality of life in South Indian cancer patient population: a prospective observational study. Indian J Pharm Sci 2014; 76:2-9. [PMID: 24799733 PMCID: PMC4007252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2012] [Revised: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, quality of life investigations of cancer patients' have became a critical evaluation parameter in the clinical cancer research and treatment evaluation programs. This study was carried out in a 1200 bed tertiary care teaching hospital, MGM Hospital, located at Warangal, India. Present study assessed the overall quality of life, symptoms of patients affected by breast, head and neck, cervical and stomach cancers by using guidelines and modules of The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer. The assessment was carried out in two phases, as review I at ≤2 cycles and review II at ≥5 cycles of treatment. Data were analyzed for 104 individuals with the mean age of 46.1±11.2 years. The evaluation was characterised as functional scale and symptom scale. In the functional scale physical, and role functions were significant (P<0.05) in all the 4 types of cancers studied. Additional, future perspective, social and emotional functions were observed to be significant in breast cancer, head and neck cancer and cervical cancer, respectively. Where as in symptom scale pain was observed to be significant for all cancers studied. Individually, breast cancer patient also showed significant parameters like fatigue, arm symptoms, and upset by hair loss. Head and neck cancer patients had insomnia and diarrhoea as additional significant symptom scale parameters. In cervical cancer patients, fatigue, insomnia, menopausal symptoms, and in stomach cancer patients, nausea and vomiting, dysphagia, reflex symptoms and eating restrictions were significantly affected. Most of the findings are similar to past studies in the respective type of cancer patients which shows that, quality of life was mostly influenced by the above mentioned factors and have some interesting implications for management and treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Damodar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Vaagdevi College of Pharmacy, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 007, India,Address for correspondence: E-mail:
| | - S. Gopinath
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Vaagdevi College of Pharmacy, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 007, India
| | - S. Vijayakumar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Vaagdevi College of Pharmacy, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 007, India
| | - A. Yedukondala Rao
- Department of Oncology, MGM Hospital, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal-506 007, India
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Tröger W, Zdrale Z, Stanković N, Matijašević M. Five-year follow-up of patients with early stage breast cancer after a randomized study comparing additional treatment with viscum album (L.) extract to chemotherapy alone. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2012; 6:173-80. [PMID: 23150723 PMCID: PMC3493140 DOI: 10.4137/bcbcr.s10558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Additional therapy with extracts of Viscum album [L.] (VaL) increases the quality of life of patients suffering from early stage breast cancer during chemotherapy. In the current study patients received chemotherapy, consisting of six cycles of cyclophosphamide, anthracycline, and 5-Fluoro-Uracil (CAF). Two groups also received one of two VaL extracts differing in their preparation as subcutaneous injection three times per week. A control group received CAF with no additional therapy. Six of 28 patients in one of the VaL groups and eight of 29 patients in the control group developed relapse or metastasis within 5 years. Subgroup analysis for hormone- and radiotherapy also showed no difference between groups. Additional VaL therapy during chemotherapy of early stage breast cancer patients appears not to influence the frequency of relapse or metastasis within 5 years.
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