ca125 still rising without herbs

[Setter]

Hi Dr Goodman this is my 3rd question and i appreciate your time. I wrote about ca125 rising and mentioned all the supplements I was taking.  You responded with a drug on drug theory so I quit ALL of them 3 weeks prior to my ca125 and 7 doxils later the # went up to 124, after 6 doxils it was 118 , after 5 doxils it was 108, what would you suggest next.  I see the new Dr Lori Jensen tomorrow I do not think I can bear an 8th doxil. What would you advise as the next step in my 3 year journey with ovarian cancer stage 1, i just heard about phenoxodiol clinical # 3 @ YALE anything you can suggest would be well received..sincerely

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
It has been used recently in some clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy as an anticancer agent. The final results are not in yet.

GM-CSF stands for granulocyte monocyte colony stimulating factor. GM-CSF is a naturally occurring substance that is made by the body in response to infection or inflammation. It acts on the bone marrow to increase the number of two types of white blood cells that fight infection, granulocytes (neutrophils) and monocytes, and makes them more effective. GM-CSF has no effect on the marrow cells which make red blood cells and platelets, so it does not help correct anaemia or restore low platelet counts.

The technology of genetic engineering has allowed the manufacture of G-CSF (known as recombinant human or rh, GM-CSF) for the treatment of people with low white blood cell counts. This includes some people who have had chemotherapy for cancer where it can speed up the recovery of the white cell count after treatment. This can help reduce the risk of infections and prevent delays in treatment, or even allow for higher doses of treatment to be given.

rhGM-CSF can be given either by injections under the skin or infusions (drips) into a vein.

Side effects of rhGM-CSF include include bone pain, allergic reactions, lethargy, malaise, anorexia, skin rashes, flushing, fever and chills. At high doses, weight gain is often seen along with breathing difficulties, blood clots and collections of fluid around the heart or lungs.

[Setter]

what does GM-CSF as a daily injection MEAN?? I do not understand the initials of GM-CSF please tell me what they mean and i will ask my DR on tuesday 06/17/08 thanks

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There
It sounds like your blood test values are stable. If you do not have any xray signs of cancer, you could:
-take a break from therapy
-go on tamoxifen or arimidex

ask your doctor doctor about any clinical trials looking at women who are asymptomatic with an elevated CA 125. At MGH we had one looking at GM-CSF as a daily injection.

Ultimately there are no wrong answers here. Please let us know what you decide
best wishes