Using immunotherapy for treating cancer has gained popularity in recent years. With advancements in medical technology, immunotherapy has significantly improved over the past few decades. Dendritic cell therapy (DCT) is the latest addition to immunotherapies. Prof. Ralph M. Steinman, "Father of Modern Immunotherapy," discovered dendritic cells in 1973.
If you or any of your known ones are diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer, using dendritic cell therapy along with conventional treatments will significantly improve the chances of curing cancer. Germany has some of the best oncologists, known for providing the best treatment options for stage 4 cancer. The country constantly researches and offers newer treatment modalities like DCT.
Germany is known for providing cost-effective treatment for various diseases, including cancer. The cost of dendritic cell therapy in Germany averages around USD 20,000.
This blog will look closer at dendritic cell therapy, its procedure, related costs, and the best oncology hospitals in Germany offering this therapy.
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What is Dendritic Cell Therapy?
Dendritic cell therapy is an immunotherapy in which the body's immune system is boosted to attack and destroy cancer cells. The immune system recognizes and fights any abnormal cells in the body. However, it becomes difficult for the system to identify and kill the cancerous cells due to the following reasons:
- Cancer cells are generated from normal cells and differ too less from them.
- They form a protective covering around them which helps them hide from the immune system.
- They can also form specific structures on their surface that can kill immune cells.
Scientists have resolved these difficulties through the discovery and development of DCT. The dendritic cells are activated in laboratories by bringing them in contact with the cancer cells. The antigen then recognizes the cancer cells as a threat and destroys them.
Some Interesting Facts About Dendritic Cell Therapy
- 4 to 6 times better at preventing the chances of metastasis
- Upto 65% reduction in tumor burden
- Safe and well tolerated
- Easy to administer
- Increases efficacy of other treatments like chemo and radiation by 2-3 folds
- Immunological memory is formed, preventing relapse and recurrence
What Types of Cancer Can Dendritic Cell Therapy Treat?
Dendritic cell therapy is often used to treat stage 4 cancer. In advanced-stage cancer, when the surgical removal of the tumor is not possible, DCT helps improve the quality of life and increases the patient's life expectancy. It does so by stopping the disease progression. However, more than 1 cycle may be required when the disease has progressed to the end stage.
Cancers that DCT can treat include:
- Breast Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
- Sarcoma
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer
- Melanoma
- Prostate Cancer
- Intestinal Cancer
- Renal Cancer
- Glioblastoma
Earlier, it was thought that blood cancer could not be treated with dendritic cell therapy. But several publications today suggest DCT can be used to treat acute leukemia.
How Does Dendritic Cell Therapy Work in Stage 4 Cancer?
Dendritic cells are a type of cells of the immune system that play a significant role in fighting cancer. With the help of modern cell culture technology, these cells can now be cultured in laboratories. The use of dendritic cells for stage 4 cancer involves the following steps.
- Making Dendritic Cells: Monocytes, a type of WBC, are extracted from the patient's blood. These cells are then differentiated into dendritic cells using growth factors and stimulating messenger substances. The process usually takes 7 days to complete.
- Loading the Cells with Information: The dendritic cells are then brought in contact with the killed and processed tumor cell proteins using test tubes. The tumor cells are taken from the patient. This helps dendritic cells to receive all the necessary information about the cancer cells enabling them to recognize the cancerous cells in the body.
- Passing on Information: The cells are then injected back into the body, where they travel through the lymphatic system. The information they receive in test tubes is passed to the lymphocytes. The activated cytotoxic T cells circulate throughout the body, identifying and killing cancer cells.
What is the Treatment Process of Dendritic Cell Therapy in Germany?
The production of dendritic cells is subject to the German Drug Law. The processed cells are tested for purity through molecular biological testing before injecting into the patients. The treatment process of dendritic cell therapy in Germany is completed in two consultations.
- The First Appointment: In the first appointment, 200 ml of blood is extracted from the patient. It is then sent to a government-approved laboratory for making dendritic cells. The laboratory must be in accordance with the German Medicines Act and European GMP guidelines. The visit is approximately 2 hours in duration. A high dose of vitamin C/D is also given. The lab needs 6-7 days to prepare the information-loaded dendritic cells.
- The Second Appointment: Exactly after 1 week, the patient is required to revisit the clinic. The cultured dendritic cells are injected under the skin. The patient has to stay for a while at the clinic for observation. An additional cycle of high-dose vitamin C/D is also given.
What is the Cost of Dendritic Cell Therapy for Treating Stage 4 Cancer in Germany?
Dendritic cell therapy has appeared as a boom for cancer patients. Oncology hospitals in Germany are using DCT to treat patients with stage 4 cancer. The healthcare sector in the country strives to provide patients with the best possible care at affordable prices.
The cost of dendritic cell therapy in Germany ranges from USD 18,600 to USD 26,300. The price includes diagnostic tests, consultation charges, laboratory charges, cost of therapy, hospital stay, and follow-up costs.
Which are the Best German Hospitals for Dendritic Cell Therapy?
Germany has been one of the favorite destinations for medical treatments. Oncology Hospitals in the country are equipped with the latest medical technologies essential for providing high-quality patient care. They have state-of-the-art facilities and follow international safety standards.
Some of the best oncology hospitals in Germany are:
- University Hospital Heidelberg: Founded in 1388, it is one of Germany's oldest and most prominent medical centers. The hospital partners with the German Cancer Research Center and provides excellent treatment to cancer patients. The hospital uses the latest treatment methods like dendritic cell therapy and TACE for cancer treatment.
- Charite University Hospital: Established in 1710, the hospital is one of Europe's most reputable university hospitals. The Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center is a research-intensive medical department. The cancer center provides innovative treatment modalities such as DCT to its patients.
- University Hospital Rechts der Isar: Located in Munich, the University Hospital Rechts der Isar has provided patients with quality services for the past 189 years. The Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich (CCCM) offers all-round care for cancer patients using an interdisciplinary approach. The hospital uses advanced medical therapies like dendritic cell therapy to treat cancer patients.
- University Hospital Düsseldorf: Established in 1907, the hospital has grown tremendously. The Düsseldorf University Tumor Center has been certified by the German Cancer Society. It offers structured treatment plans based on the latest scientific guidelines and recommendations. The oncologists at the hospital are well-versed in using innovative treatment methods, including DCT, for cancer treatment.
Final Words
Dendritic cell therapy, or DCT, is the most innovative method for treating stage 4 cancer. It offers several advantages and has lesser side effects than conventional therapies. DCT is often used with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and increases their effectiveness by 2-3 times. Germany is at the forefront of using dendritic cell therapy. The country has several renowned hospitals and oncologists who are experts in treating stage 4 cancer with DCT.
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