In January 2018, doctors at the Ella Lemelbaum Institute for Immuno-Oncology at Sheba Medical Center implemented a breakthrough protocol for ovarian cancer.
Their innovative clinical trial uses Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) treatment, immunotherapy already used as an effective melanoma treatment. Sheba is proud to be the only hospital worldwide to offer this revolutionary therapy for ovarian cancer, still in active research.
TIL converts the body's lymphocytes into cancer-killing cells. Doctors surgically remove the tumor, extract the lymphocytes, and genetically engineer these white blood cells to destroy malignant cells. After a few days growing in the laboratory, the modified lymphocytes are injected back into the patient. Usually, TIL reduces the size of metastasis quickly in roughly half of the patients. Over time, about 25% of melanoma patients are completely cured.
On the wings of TIL's soaring success against melanoma, Prof. Jacob Schachter, Director, and Dr. Ronnie Shapira-Frommer, Senior Oncologist, are performing clinical trials to treat recalcitrant ovarian cancer with this progressive approach.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. In the early stages, it is typically silent – presenting only unspecific symptoms. Therefore, ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed after it has advanced significantly. At that point, intensive treatment involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
"Ovarian cancer is notoriously difficult to treat. In first world countries, the estimated survival rate is approximately 45%, with markedly lower rates in other countries. As a promising new treatment, TIL offers hope to ovarian cancer patients," says Dr. Shapira.
TIL for ovarian cancer is offered exclusively at Sheba Medical Center, where patients benefit from the convenience of receiving TIL in a single, state-of-the-art facility, assisted by the International Medical Tourism Division. Internationally renowned physicians provide leading-edge treatment with a personalized, compassionate approach. Ovarian cancer patients who meet particular criteria may be eligible for TIL treatment. For more information, click here or call +1-315-517-1888.