Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are responsible for producing antibodies that help fight infections. In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells multiply uncontrollably, leading to a range of complications. Key Characteristics …
Art of Oncology
Exploring the Human Side of Cancer Through Art and Stories
Immerse yourself in the human experience of cancer through our “Art of Oncology” category. Here, we delve into the emotional and personal aspects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Explore stories of courage, resilience, and hope shared by survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Experience the healing power of art, creativity, and storytelling as we navigate the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families.
When it comes to battling a rare and aggressive cancer like synovial sarcoma, the treatment options have often been limited—until now. The FDA’s recent approval of Tecelra (Amafi-Cel), the first gene therapy for adults with metastatic synovial sarcoma, not only provides new hope for patients who’ve exhausted other options but also paves the way for …
Meet Sarah, a resilient woman in her late 40s who has been battling stage IV metastatic melanoma. After enduring the uncertainties of her diagnosis, Sarah achieved a remarkable remission through immunotherapy, a victory that brought her and her loved ones immense relief. However, the journey doesn’t end there. Sarah now faces the ongoing challenge of …
Navigating the unpredictable waves of cancer treatment with our patients is not just a professional journey but a deeply personal experience that binds us together in shared hope and resilience. This week, I found myself reflecting on the incredible journey of a young 40 year old patient I’ve been caring for over the past six …
In the intricate world of oncology, diagnosing and treating cancer presents myriad challenges, particularly when patients exhibit rare or atypical manifestations of the disease. A compelling example of this complexity recently unfolded with a young patient from the Caribbean who presented with a large, painful scalp mass. Initially diagnosed as locally advanced skin cancer, subsequent …
I do not personally treat cervical cancers however I do have a good understanding of these disease types mainly for the purposes of rounding on the teaching inpatient oncology service where I could potentially see any solid tumor malignancy and occasionally I am called on from family members with cousins or friends that were recently …
I’m currently on the inpatient medical oncology service. As an attending, we each take turns each month taking all oncology consults for the downtown hospital center. There was an interesting patient our team saw this past week who presented with a new diagnosis of Stage IV NSCLC and SVC syndrome. A 52-year-old woman who, amidst …
Amongst my medical oncology colleagues, we each do about two months a year rounding with the inpatient team of fellows, residents, students, pharmacists, and extenders for either the inpatient medical oncology or hematology service. So any cancer patient admitted to our hospital system will often be seen by these two teams. In addition, I often …
This post is dedicated to all the hard working oncology nurses! In cancer care, oncology nurses are often the unsung heroes, playing a myriad of roles that go beyond traditional nursing responsibilities. This post celebrates these compassionate caregivers, shedding light on the multifaceted roles they play in the journey of a cancer patient. 1. Patient …
Embarking on the tumultuous journey that is stage IV melanoma, both patients and healthcare providers often find themselves in an intricate dance of vulnerability, resilience, and human connection. This is the poignant tale of a young man’s persistent battle against melanoma, his remarkable perseverance through a myriad of treatments, and the eventual moment of triumph …