At present, Histiocytosis is treated depending on the patient’s age, level of affliction, and the extent of which his body is affected. Chemotherapy is the most common form of treatment that is out to battle the activity of the tumor. Corticosteroids are often used to suppress the immune function but children may also be given Methotrexate, Cladribine, Vinblastine, Cyclophosphamide, and Etoposide.
Radiation therapy is also found effective in preventing the tumors from metastasizing. Spread of excessive histiocyte in critical organs or parts of the body may cause permanent or uncontrollable damage.
Skin lesions that occur with Histiocytosis are often prescribed with topical medications of corticosteroids. However, if it involves infants and very young children, treatment is handled with utmost care ensuring that it provides rapid response with very minimal side effects.
The major objective of medical treatment in Histiocytosis is to relieve the symptoms and avoid the progression of the condition and cause any more complications.
Long-term medical care is needed to ensure that a Histiocytosis survivor is completely safe of recurrence. Since patients who have championed the disease have a pretty huge chance of suffering from relapse, close monitoring by a specialist knowledgeable about Histiocytosis is important.
A patient with Histiocytosis relapse has odds of developing adverse effects that come out at a later stage. If this is not seen because of the absence of follow-up care, Histiocytosis may cause stunted growth and a disturbed sexual maturity. Orthopedic problems, dental disorders, hearing loss, and skin scarring may also occur.
For the moment, patients of Histiocytosis may find shelter and support from some groups specializing in this particular condition. The Histiocytosis Association of America is especially supportive of any clinical study that will be done about the disease. It is also very open about providing support and sharing treatment protocols that are in its research stable.
Histiocytosis is not a very common disease. Its recognition close to a decade ago is a proof that not too many individuals suffer from its disabling symptoms. That is not a reason, however, for the medical industry to stop on learning new and absolute ways that will put off Histiocytosis completely. Patients suffering from this disease can do so much by sharing their experiences and being open to be part of the research process. Clinical research teams need to learn as much as they can about Histiocytosis to provide an antidote that will be able to tackle its occurrence.