To provide the information your oncologist is not telling you or doesn't have the time to!
This week, I encountered a situation that weighs heavily on me as a nurse but raises an important question in the oncology world. As a clinical trial nurse, we typically only see our patients at research-specific visits. It’s likely that several weeks can go by without any contact, making each visit a critical touchpoint. Imagine …
Spending three to four weeks in Japan with my family has been a transformative experience. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto, the serene deer-filled parks in Nara, and the vibrant food scenes in Osaka, this trip has been as educational as it’s been enjoyable. Beyond the stunning landscapes and …
IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a chronic, immune-mediated disorder that can affect multiple organs, causing inflammation, fibrosis, and long-term organ damage. I uncommonly see these patients as they often present as a retroperitoneal mass concerning for a connective tissue malignancy however biopsied proven IgG4 related non-malignant disease requiring immunosuppressant treatment which I often did as there …
Introduction Veterans have served and sacrificed, often facing unique health risks during and after their time in the military. Among these health concerns is an increased risk for certain cancers due to exposure to hazardous environments and substances. On this Veterans Day, let’s take the opportunity to discuss cancer risks specific to Veterans, how service …
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer originating in the plasma cells of the bone marrow, leading to an overproduction of abnormal plasma cells. This accumulation disrupts normal blood cell production and results in a range of complications, such as bone pain, anemia, kidney issues, and increased infection risk. Historically, treatment options for …
Bladder Cancer Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. About 81,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S. alone. While it’s more common in men, it affects thousands of women as well. Most bladder cancers are urothelial carcinomas. If caught early, they can often be treated successfully. However, for patients with muscle-invasive …
A recent New England Journal of Medicine study introduces asciminib, a new treatment for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) that shows improved effectiveness and fewer side effects compared to current therapies. This post will explain the study’s findings and what they mean for patients and caregivers, highlighting how asciminib could offer a better option for those newly diagnosed with …
As I prepare to close this chapter of my life, winding down my clinic and stepping away from my role as a medical oncologist, I find myself navigating a complex mix of emotions—gratitude, sadness, and a quiet sense of anticipation. For the first time in my career, I am saying goodbye to patients and colleagues …
In the ever-evolving landscape of cancer care, the role of the oncology nurse navigator has emerged as a cornerstone of patient support and care coordination. In this post, we’ll explore the origins of oncology navigation, emerging trends, and what the future holds. We will also include some significant changes in billing practices that are on …
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 …