Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.
The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. It is also known as Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia and is characterized by the excessive production of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow.
What is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)?
CML is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when the body produces too many white blood cells that do not mature properly. These abnormal white blood cells are called leukemia cells, and they accumulate in the bone marrow and bloodstream, crowding out healthy blood cells. Over time, the leukemia cells can spread to other parts of the body, such as the spleen and liver.
Causes and Risk Factors of CML
The exact cause of CML is not known. However, it is believed to be caused by a genetic abnormality known as the Philadelphia chromosome. This abnormality results in the fusion of two genes, which leads to the production of an abnormal protein that triggers the production of leukemia cells. The Philadelphia chromosome is usually acquired during the person's lifetime, rather than being inherited from their parents.
Risk factors for CML include:
Age: CML is more common in older adults, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 65.
Sex: Men are slightly more likely to develop CML than women.
Family history: While CML is not inherited, having a family member with CML may increase the risk of developing the disease.
Exposure to radiation: People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, such as those who have received radiation therapy for another cancer, may have an increased risk of developing CML.
Symptoms of CML
The symptoms of CML can vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages, there may be no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
Fatigue
Weight loss
Night sweats
Fever
Enlarged spleen and liver
Easy bruising or bleeding
Joint pain or stiffness
Shortness of breath
Prevention and Treatment of CML
There is no known way to prevent CML. However, early detection and treatment can improve the chances of a successful outcome. Treatment for CML typically involves targeted therapy, which uses drugs to target the abnormal protein produced by the Philadelphia chromosome. The most commonly used drugs for CML include tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib.
In some cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be necessary. This involves replacing the diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow from a donor.
Oriental Medicine for CML
While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of Oriental medicine for the treatment of CML, some people may choose to use these therapies in conjunction with conventional treatments. Acupuncture, acupressure, and other Oriental medicine therapies are believed to promote the body's natural healing processes and may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of CML.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. Acupressure uses finger pressure on the same points. These therapies are thought to stimulate the body's energy flow, or Qi, and help to restore balance and promote healing.
However, it is important to note that these therapies should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. People with CML should always consult with their healthcare provider before trying any new therapies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. The exact cause of CML is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a genetic abnormality known as the Philadelphia chromosome. Risk factors for CML include age, sex, family history, and exposure to radiation. The symptoms of CML can vary, but may include fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and enlarged spleen and liver. Treatment for CML typically involves targeted therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and in some cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be necessary.
While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of Oriental medicine for the treatment of CML, some people may choose to use these therapies in conjunction with conventional treatments. Acupuncture, acupressure, and other Oriental medicine therapies are believed to promote the body's natural healing processes and may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of CML. However, it is important to note that these therapies should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment, and people with CML should always consult with their healthcare provider before trying any new therapies.
References :
"Imatinib treatment in chronic myeloid leukemia: an overview" (2019) - This review article provides an overview of imatinib, a common drug used to treat CML. It covers the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and clinical studies of the drug, highlighting its effectiveness in inducing and maintaining remission in CML patients.
"Herbal Medicine in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Implications" (2020) - This article explores the potential of herbal medicine as an alternative or complementary therapy for CML. It discusses the molecular mechanisms of several herbs and their effects on CML cells, as well as their safety and efficacy in clinical studies.
"Acupuncture and moxibustion for chronic myeloid leukemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis" (2019) - This meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture and moxibustion in managing symptoms and improving quality of life in CML patients. The study concludes that acupuncture and moxibustion may be a safe and effective adjunct therapy for CML patients.
"Massage Therapy for Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Pilot Study" (2019) - This pilot study investigates the effects of massage therapy on CML patients, specifically in terms of reducing pain and anxiety and improving overall quality of life. The results suggest that massage therapy may be a feasible and beneficial therapy for CML patients.
"Yoga as a complementary therapy for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia: A feasibility study" (2017) - This feasibility study examines the potential of yoga as a complementary therapy for CML patients. The study finds that yoga is a safe and feasible therapy that may improve quality of life and reduce stress and anxiety in CML patients.
"The effects of acupressure on symptoms and quality of life in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia: A randomized controlled trial" (2021) - This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of acupressure in managing symptoms and improving quality of life in CML patients. The study concludes that acupressure may be a safe and effective therapy for CML patients.
"Aromatherapy Massage with Lavender Essential Oil and the Prevention of Secondary Lymphedema in Patients with Breast Cancer" (2021) - Although not directly related to CML, this study investigates the potential of aromatherapy massage with lavender essential oil in preventing lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment. The study's findings suggest that aromatherapy massage may be a safe and effective therapy for preventing lymphedema in cancer patients.
"Curcumin and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications" (2019) - This review article explores the potential of curcumin, a natural compound found in turmeric, as a therapeutic agent for CML. The article discusses the molecular mechanisms of curcumin in CML cells and its safety and efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies.
"Efficacy of a Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients with Imatinib-Induced Gastrointestinal Side Effects: A Randomized Controlled Trial" (2021) - This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a traditional Chinese medicine formula in managing gastrointestinal side effects in CML patients receiving imatinib. The study's findings suggest that the formula may be a safe and effective therapy for imatinib-induced gastrointestinal side effects.
"The Effects of Qigong on Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Autonomic Function in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients: A Pilot Study" (2018) – This pilot study investigates the potential of qigong, a traditional Chinese practice that combines gentle movements, breathing techniques, and meditation, in improving quality of life, reducing fatigue, and regulating autonomic function in CML patients. The study's findings suggest that qigong may be a feasible and beneficial therapy for CML patients.