Small Cell Lung Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Inflammatory
Breast Cancer
with bone and liver
lesions. After 1 month liver
lesions disappeared, after 5
months bone scan virtually
normal and breast tumor
almost gone. January 12th,
2008 in her own words:
"I am very happy and thankful..."Patient Testimonials
***For Complete Long-Term Remissions please click here.***
DISCLAIMER: No claim is made that patients with similar diagnosis and/or treatment/s will respond to the same extent as the patients shown below.
All testimonials were provided voluntarily and without any kind of remuneration. None of these patients were/are related to the Issels Treatment and their staff. Names are not revealed for privacy purposes when requested.
What our patients say about us...
April 16, 2007 from Gerd: 
Complete remission of lung tumor through Issels Treatment in March 2003. multiple metastases in both lungs.
Melanoma with multiple metastases in both lungs and lymph.
CT scan revealed that already after 4 weeks of the Issels Treatment
without any standard treatment all of the metastases in both lungs
disappeared.
with bone and liver lesions.
disappeared, after 5 months
bone scan virtually normal
and breast tumor almost gone.
Inflammatory Breast cancer with bone
and liver lesions. Already 1 month into
the Issels Treatment the CT scan revealed
that the liver lesions disappeared. After
5 months the bone scan was virtually
normal. The breast tumor shrank from
4 x 3.5 cm to pea size. Patient had gained
20 pounds. November 9th, 2006 in her
own words: “I am very happy and thankful.”January 12, 2008: "I enjoy life and am very optimistic."
>> Watch Laura's video (7.5 MB)
bone and liver metastases
liver metastases
Ductal carcinoma of the breast with bone and liver metastases. After 8 months of Issels Treatment bone metastases of sternum disappeared and 4 of 5 liver metastases gone. February 2008, Lucia in her own words: I thank God that my husband and I made the decision to come to Issels.
>> Watch Lucia's video (4 MB)
Lung and Bone Metastases
"I've been on the Issels Program for a year. Every three months I have my CT scans and bone scans and every time I've gone since a year ago they have been improved. My tumors have decreased in size every time, there's no new cancer showing and I continue to be on the Issels Treatment and it's done very well for me."
>>Carol's video (1.6 MB)
lung metastases Stage IV.
as tumor markers.
Colorectal adenocarcinoma with lung metastases
confirmed by biopsy. Already after one month into
the Issels Treatment the number and sizes of the
metastases in the mediastinum and parenchymal
tissue of the lungs decreased. Weight and energy increased. May 2007, a year after the start of the Issels Treatment, his CEA tumor marker is at 1.9 within the normal range. January 2008: “I feel excellent."
>> Watch Tom's video (20.5 MB)
15.2 within 3 months
Prostate cancer with multiple bone metastases in the skull, hips, lower spine responds to Issels Treatment. Dramatic decrease of PSA within 3 months. The patient feels stronger and can walk again. William was elated. In December 2006 he said: “My bone scans of May 11 and Nov 4th, 2006 were completely clear and all bone metastases were gone. I have gained 25 pounds and feel strong again without any pain.”January 2008: "I feel great!"
>> Watch Bill's video (6.9 MB)
Prostate Cancer with multiple bone metastases in bilateral ribs, thoracic spine, sacrum, pelvis and left femur responds dramatically to the Issels Treatment. Within 3 weeks the PSA of 3,524 dropped to 639.9, pain minimized, appetite and overall well being improved and energy level went up. Laboratory studies of July 1st, about 1 month after Gerald’s discharge from the Issels Treatment Center, showed a PSA level of 17.27 and Gerald reported a substantial improvement in his quality of life, with practically no bone pain, no limitations in his range of motion. Gerald is very optimistic and eager to continue his complete home treatment protocol.>> Watch Gerald's video (2.4 MB)
Non-small cell lung cancer with multiple mediastinal lesions and nodes of the subclavicular and tracheal area significantly reduced in size after 4 months into the comprehensive immunological Issels Treatment. June 11, 2008: Primary lung tumor has reduced to a small residual scar. Carolyn feels excellent and is very active.>> Watch Carolyn's's video (5.6MB)
with bone and liver metastases.
the liver and bone lesions
show reduced metastatic activity.
94 in 4 weeks
with Issels Treatment Results
recurring hard breast tumor within 3 months
not just a cancer case
Cancer free for over 30 years.
April 16, 2007:
"I was treated at the Issels Clinic in 1972-1973 for head and neck (epipharynx) tumor. I was 12 years old and I am still thankful that Dr. Issels saved my life. Back then the University Clinic gave me 2 weeks to live.
I am now 45 years old and never had any more symptoms."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Complete remission of lung tumor
>> Watch Jim Gibson's testimonial (12.8 MB)
Cancer free after the Issels Treatment since March 2003.
January 2008: Jim leads a very active life.
For more information please visit his website www.survivingsmallcell.com.
Update of December 2007:
CT scan and MRI reveal patient is cancer free.
"It is now over six years since the initial diagnosis of small cell lung cancer in my left lung. In that time, it returned, I fought it off with alternative treatments, and it is more than 5 years since I left the Issels Treatment Center cancer free."
--
Quote from Jim Gibson's website
www.survivingsmallcell.com
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of all of the multiple metastases in both lungs
>> Watch Kenneth Scoones's testimonial (6.8 MB)
In May 2008 Mr. Kenneth Scoones was diagnosed as suffering from a reddish-black lesion, suspicious of melanoma, in his left anterior hemi thorax, just above the nipple. His family practitioner in the United Kingdom took a biopsy from the 1.5 cm lesion and one week later the pathology report confirmed the diagnosis melanoma.
On June 18th 2008, he had a CT scan of the thorax and underwent surgery to perform a wide local resection of the melanoma on his left breast. A central lymph node biopsy was performed on June 20th 2008. Two weeks later he was informed that the central lymph node biopsy was positive for melanoma metastasis and that the CT scan showed multiple, uncountable pulmonary nodules consistent with metastases.
His doctors offered him to start chemotherapy with the forewarning that it would have severe side effects and that it might only add one year of life but that they could not assure a positive outcome. Instead of undergoing chemotherapy Kenneth decided to try the comprehensive non-toxic Issels Treatment.
He arrived at the Issels Treatment Center on September 13th 2008 and the complete Issels treatment protocol was started without any delay. During his 4-week stay he maintained a very positive attitude, enjoying the healing environment of the Center.
On October 6th 2008 a thoracic CT scan was performed and the comparison with his previous thoracic CT scan dated June 18th 2008 revealed the remission of all the pulmonary metastases seen in the previous study.
At the time of his discharge on October 9th 2008 Kenneth was in excellent general conditions, with the high energy level of KPS at 100, and eager to continue his complete home treatment protocol.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer with bone metastases and liver lesions.
After 1 month liver lesions disappeared, after 5 months bone scan virtually normal and breast tumor almost gone.
>> Watch Laura Dunford's testimonial (7.5 MB)
In February 2001, Laura was diagnosed with a 9x11 cm infiltrative carcinoma in the lower external part of the right breast, which was estrogen and progestagen positive and Her2neu negative. It was a grade 3, highly aggressive tumor with a lymph node of 3x1.5cm in the axilla.
The tumor was too large for surgery and no radiation treatment was administered. Laura received chemotherapy, the FEC regimen, which did not work well. Therefore, she was given taxotere. She continued with homeopathy and hormone blocking medication. This eradicated the tumor within 9 months until it started to grow back in 2005. She received more taxotere and tried the Natural Hygiene method of fasting. In June 2006 the bone scan revealed a metastasis to the sternum measuring 3x3 cm and liver lesions were diagnosed.
When she started the Issels Treatment in June 2006, a tumor of 4x3.5 cm was palpated in the right breast. Upon her discharge from the 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccine program the CT scan did not show the liver lesions any more. After 5 months of the Issels home care program the breast tumor had shrunk to pea size and the bone scan was “virtually normal”. The patient gained 20 lbs and is in very good condition with excellent attitude.
Update of June 9, 2007:
The recent bone scans of June 2007 "shows nothing in the hips, the shoulder or the spine". In spite of the bad prognosis of Laurie's oncologist she is still fit for work.
"I'm very, very thankful for all the help I have received from the Issels team."
- Laurie Dunford
Fall 2007: Laura during her visit to China
Update of January 2008:
"I enjoy life and am very optimistic."
Update of May 2008:
Laurie in Alberta, Canada, two years after initiation of the Issels Treatment:
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Breast Cancer stage IV with bone and liver metastases.
Remission of bone and liver metastases.
>> Watch Lucia Lizotte's testimonial (4.0 MB)
In June 2003 Lucia was diagnosed as suffering from breast cancer, left side, measuring 2.5 cm. The biopsy revealed a ductal carcinoma in situ, her-2, estrogen and progestagen positive. She had a lumpectomy and mastectomy, but did not opt for chemotherapy and/or radiation. Shortly after surgery she became pregnant with her first child.
In March 2007 Lucia complained about back pain. The PET/CT scans reveal metastases to the spine T12, L1, L5, and S1. The PET scan of March 13, 2008 shows multiple metabolic lesions of the liver (altogether 5), metastases of the left rib, T2, L2, L5, and sacrum. Treatment with the hormone blocker Tamoxifen was initiated. No other conventional treatment.
On May 8th 2007, Lucia starts the intensive 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccines and continues the follow-up home care program as the only treatment.
On December 28th 2007, PET/CT scans reveal remarkable reduction in the number of osseous and hepatic metastases. The tumor remnants in T12, L1 and L5 are markedly diminished. The previously visualized foci on the left side of the liver have resolved (comparison March 2007) as well as the right lobar foci. Only one lesion remains centrally measuring 2.4 x 1.6 cm. No new metastases.
Four of five liver metastases have resolved. Liver enzymes are within normal range, as well as tumor marker Ca 125 at 13.February 2008, Lucia is in very good condition leading a happy family life. During her follow-up visit to the Issels Treatment Center on February 29th, she states: "I thank God that my husband and I made the decision to come to Issels."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Renal Cell Kidney Cancer with Lung and Bone Metastases
After one year into the Issels Treatment tumors have decreased in size and no new tumors showing.
>> Watch Carol Gayle's testimonial (4.0 MB)
On August 16th, 2006 Carol Gayle, 64 years old, was diagnosed as suffering from metastatic kidney cancer. The CT scan revealed a large left hypernephroma (kidney cancer) that measured 8.2 x 9 cm, left renal vein thrombosis with pulmonary, mediastinal, pulmonary hilar metastases and a 2 cm enhancing soft tissure mass in the medullary cavity of the distal third of the right femur, and a second, approximately 4 mm lesion in the anterior cortex of the same femur, compatible with a malignant metastasis. A nuclear bone scan on August 29th, 2006 confirmed these findings and a biopsy of the right distal femur on September 14th, 2006 showed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with features consistent with MRCC.
She underwent an operation for an intramedullary rod of the right distal femur, and curettage, argon beam and cementation of the cavitary defect on September 14th, 2006. Following this surgery she was treated with Avastin for 8 weeks and in December 2006 her left kidney was surgically removed. The pathology report of December 12th, 2006 revealed a renal cell carcinoma (14.0 cm in largest dimension), conventional (clear cell) type, Fuhrman nuclear grade 4, with extensive necrosis (75% of the tumor), invasive into perinephric adipose tissue and renal vein, Stage pT3b N0/35 M1 G4.
Carol suspended the radiotherapy offered. Instead she entered an experimental program that she did not tolerate. Subsequently she looked for alternative options and without any further standard treatment she chose immunotherapy, the Issels Treatment.
Carol Gayle underwent the intensive program of comprehensive Immunotherapy at the Issels Treatment Center from April 12th, 2007 until May 5th, 2007 without complications. A superior abdomen CT Scan of April 30th, 2007 revealed that there where multiple nodular lesions on both inferior pulmonary lobules without change from the previous study of March 21st, 2007, a surgically absent left kidney and left adrenal, hepatic hypodensities on right lobule of .4 cm that had not changed from the previous study, and the rest of the superior abdominal images were normal.
The comparison of the chest, abdomen and pelvic CT scans of January 8th, 2008 with the ones of October 11th, 2007, showed that there is an interval decrease in size of a right middle lobe nodule. Additional pulmonary nodules are stable. There is interval improvement of the right hilar and aorticopulmonary window adenopathy, stable low-density left hepatic lobe lesion, indeterminate and surgical changes of prior left nephrectomy are without findings to suggest recurrence.
The findings of her bone scan of January 9th, 2008 were similar to the ones seen on October 5th, 2007 and do not appear suspicious for potential metastatic disease, but are felt to be post surgical and degenerative in origin.
March 17, 2008 on Carol's second visit to the Issels Treatment: "I've been on the Issels Program for a year. Every three months I have my CT scans and bone scans and every time I've gone since a year ago they have been improved. My tumors have decreased in size every time, there's no new cancer showing and I continue to be on the Issels Treatment and it's done very well for me."
As part of her follow-up treatment protocol, Carol’s second visit to the Issels Treatment Center was on March 17th, 2008. She has gained weight, felt much better and was very happy about the drastic improvement of her condition. Carolyn in her own words: "I've been on the Issels Program for a year. Every three months I have my CT scans and bone scans and every time I've gone since a year ago they have been improved. My tumors have decreased in size every time, there's no new cancer showing and I continue to be on the Issels Treatment and it's done very well for me."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Number and sizes of mediastinal metastases decreased as well as tumor markers.
>> Watch Tom Howell's testimonial (20.5 MB)
In 1999 the patient had a colorectal adenocarcinoma surgically removed. Chemotherapy with 5FU and Leukovorin for 6 months and radiation therapy for 6 weeks followed.
In September 2004 a recurrence was diagnosed in the same area and metastases to the lungs which were confirmed by biopsy as well as 2 nodes in the sternum. Another 6 months of chemotherapy from October 2004 until April 2005 followed with the Folfox regimen which included 5FU, Leukovorin, Oxaliplatin, and Avastin with the side effect of nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, neuropathy and other complications.
In November 2005 a PET scan revealed that the cancer continued to grow and in December 2005 a third round of chemotherapy started for 3 months with the Folfuri regimen which replaced the Oxaliplatin in the previous regimen with Irinotecan.
In March 2006 an ileostomy became necessary. On May 8, 2006 Tom was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center where he received the comprehensive immunotherapy including the vaccine protocol. Upon discharge from the intensive 4 week in-patient treatment the CT scan showed a decrease of the number and sizes of the metastases in the mediastinum and parenchymal tissue of the lungs.
Tom continued the home care program, regained weight and his energy.
November 16, 2006, Washington, USA, the patient in his
own words: “I feel great. I have resumed my activities
and thank my doctors at the Issels clinic for their excellent
care. I also very much appreciated the warm “healing
environment” of the whole place, which made us
sometimes feel like being on vacation rather than in
a hospital. The nearby ocean did its part, too.”
January 2008: "I feel excellent."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
PSA decreased from 9,500 to 15.2 within 3 months
>> Bill Darlington's testimonial (6.9 MB)
Prostate cancer with multiple bone metastases in the skull, hips, lower spine responds to Issels Treatment. Dramatic decrease of PSA within 3 weeks. The patient feels stronger and can walk again. His wife was elated: “Judging from our friend’s response to the Issels Treatment, we hoped for an improvement, but we did not dare to hope for such a huge success in this short time.”
W.D. was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in March 2004 when his PSA was already 1,565. In view of the advanced stage, his doctors did not recommend surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, but only hormone treatment. The patient took recourse to natural treatments, but could not stop the progression of the cancer. In the first 3 weeks of the Issels Treatment, including the extracorporeal photopheresis with the dendritic cell vaccine, his PSA dropped from 9,500 to 4,100 and his general condition improved drastically. He went home after a 4-week intensive in-patient treatment and will continue with the comprehensive program including the dendritic cell and autologous Issels vaccines.
March 2006. William Darlington, Ontario, Canada:
"When I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in March 2004, the PSA marker was already 1,565. In December 2005 I arrived at the Issels Treatment Center in a wheel chair because of the many bone metastases in my spine and hip. The PSA had climbed to 9,500. Within 3 weeks of intensive in-patient treatment it decreased to 4,100 and after 2 months to 366. Now 3 months into the Issels Treatment including the vaccines, my PSA is down to 15.2. I have put on 16 pounds, feel strong again and can walk without pain. I have resumed many of my activities and regained my life – thanks to my Issels doctors. We so appreciate their thorough loving care and terrific follow-up upon our return home."
November 2006. William Darlington:
"My bone scans of May 11 and Nov 14th, 2006 were completely clear and all bone metastases were gone. I have gained 25 pounds and feel strong again without any pain."
December 5, 2006. William Darlington:
"Exactly one year after my initial treatment
I came back to the Issels Center for my
second complimentary check-up. This time
not in a wheel chair, not in need of a companion
but in great shape. It was a wonderful reunion with
my Issels doctors and I had a lot of fun seeing
how happy everybody was to see me in such a
good condition."
April 10, 2007. William Darlington:
I feel very good. My energy has further increased. I have been walking more than a mile everyday all winter. I am back to my normal weight of 160 lbs., and my family and friends have noticed that I don't look sick anymore. I'm preparing now for a long 12,000-mile road trip to Manitoba in our motor home.
January 2008: "I feel great!"
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
PSA decreased from 3,524 to 17.27 within 6 weeks
>> Gerald Aptaker's testimonial (2.4 MB)
Mr. Gerald Aptaker was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in 1996. A Doppler pelvic ultrasound and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. The PSA level was 16 ng/ml with a combined Gleason score of 7. His doctors recommended surgery, however, the patient decided to seek alternative medical treatment in New York. From 1996 to July 2007 his PSA level kept rising. In August 2007 he started feeling weak, dizziness, and his urinary symptoms and the pain in his lower extremities returned.
In February 2008 the pain in his lower extremities intensified making it difficult to walk, and he started having pain in his cervical region.
Laboratory results from April 29th 2008 revealed a PSA level of 3101 ng/ml. An abdominal and pelvic CT scan on May 8th 2008 showed a markedly enlarged prostate gland with possible tumor component posteriorly on the left, displacing the rectum, bone lesions suspicious of metastatic disease. The next day a total body bone scan revealed multiple areas of abnormal intense tracer uptake in bilateral ribs, thoracic spine, sacrum, pelvis and left femur consistent with diffuse osteoblastic skeletal metastases. After these results Gerald decided to come to the Issels Treatment Center for the comprehensive immunotherapy.
Gerald started the Issels Treatment on May 15th, 2008. At this time he complained of bone pain in his left iliac region that irradiated to his abdomen, and pain in the region of his right iliac bone that extended to his right lower extremity and that exacerbated during night and during walking. He had pain in both shoulders that limited his full arc of movements in his upper extremities, and neck, he also had costal right pain. He had no appetite and felt extremely weak. His PSA level on May 16th 2008 was 3524.
Gerald underwent the comprehensive Issels immunotherapy without any complication and the laboratory study on June 4th showed that the PSA level dropped to 639.9.
During his stay he manifested improvement in his overall wellbeing. His pain had almost subsided , his appetite improved greatly and his energy level went up. He was discharged on June 12th 2008 with a comprehensive follow up home treatment protocol.
On July 1st 2008, 6 weeks after the start of the Issels Treatment, laboratory studies at home showed a PSA level of 17.27 and the patient reports a substantial improvement in his quality of life, with practically no bone pain, no limitations in his range of motion and being in great spirits, eager to continue his complete home treatment protocol.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
After 2 years of Issels Treatment, PET and CT scans show lung tumor now only scar tissue
>> Godine Weiss's testimonial (11.7 MB)
In October 2005, Godine Weiss was diagnosed as suffering from non-small cell Adenocarcinoma of the right lung in the apical zone measuring 3.1 x 1.7 cm, a left axillary lymph node measuring 1.8 x 1.2 cm, and a right hilar lymph node measuring 1.0 cm. The CEA tumor marker ranged up to 40, and she was anemic. Surgery was not possible and the patient did not opt for chemotherapy or radiation.
Godine started the intensive 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccines on December 6th, 2005 and continued the follow-up home program for 6 months. The CT scan of June 28th, 2006 revealed a slight decrease of the left axillary lymph node from 1.8 x 1.2 cm to 1.5 x 1.1 cm. The PET / CT scan of June 4th, 2007 showed a further decrease of the left axillary lymph node to 1.4 x 0.9 cm and revealed that the tumor in the right lung has no metabolic activity any more and is consistent with scar tissue. The hemoglobin with 13.8 gr is in the normal range, as well as the CEA tumor marker with 2.6. Godine has no pelvic or abdominal metastases.
According to the report of the scan of December 3rd, 2007 “there has been no interval change since the previous examination of June 4th, 2007.”
Godine comes for the regular complimentary follow-up visits to the Issels Treatment Center and continues to take the natural medications and supplements.
In March 2008, Godine is in good condition and happy to report that she "graduated" and does not have to present for the 3-month checkups to her oncologist anymore. He said to her at her last visit: “You are a success, but not even my success”. Her friends call her a miracle baby.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
After 4 months of Issels Treatment significant decrease of the primary lung tumor and paratracheal lymphadenopathy.
>> Carolyn Murphy's testimonial (5.6 MB)
In June 2007, Carolyn Murphy, 50 years old, was diagnosed as suffering from Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Adenocarcinoma. The first CT scan of the Thorax revealed a mass in the upper right lobe, nodes of the subclavicular and tracheal area and multiple mediastinal adenopathies. Patient did not opt for chemotherapy or radiation.
On August 30th, 2007, Carolyn came from England to undergo the 4-week comprehensive immunological Issels Treatment program.
The CT scan of the thorax on September 24th, 2007 showed anterior mediastinal adenopathy of 1.90 x 1.41 cm, para-tracheal adenopathy of 1.74 x 2.64, and peri-bronchial adenopathy right of 2.24 x 1.60 cm.
The CT scan with contrast performed on June 11th, 2008 by the same institution as in December 2007, showed further improvement. The right hilar node has decreased from 1.8 x 2,3 cm to 1.6 x 1.7 cm and the primary lung tumor in the right upper lobe has been diminished to a “small residual scar”.
In July 2008 Carolyn is very active and happy.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumors
This very pleasant 71-year-old retired educator was admitted for comprehensive immunotherapy after an 11-year history of breast carcinoma and a history of uterine cancer. On discovery in 1993 of a 6-cm mass in her left breast, she accepted treatment with a modified radical mastectomy with lymph-node dissection (6 of 21 were positive for malignancy). Because of the lymphatic involvement and the size of the primary lesion, she was staged as IIIA (T3 N1 M0). Surgery was followed by chemotherapy with Cytoxan, methotrexate, and 5FU for many months.
A 7-year symptom-free period was ended in February of 2003 with the development of left-sided lymphedema, weight loss, and a persistent dry cough. A September 2003 PET scan of the lungs revealed multiple hypermetabolic foci within the neck, chest and skeleton. On the left side, the scalene and supraclavicular lymph nodes were involved, and on the right side the hilar nodal groups were active. Multiple skeletal lesions were observed in the right femur and ileum, the left acetabulum, a left rib/chest wall, and the spine at L4. The spinal lesion was again imaged by a CT scan of October 2003, and a whole-body bone scan at the same time clearly demonstrated a lesion at L3-4, as well as lesions of the left clavicle, and a left lateral rib. A routine PA and lateral chest x-ray revealed a 1.5-cm left mid lung mass which had been first identified in September 2003. On guided biopsy, she suffered a minor pneumothorax, but recovered without further incident.
By January 2004, just before her admission to the Issels Treatment Center, C.G.’s most recent CT scans now revealed two lung tumors on the left, a 1.4-cm lingular nodule, and a new 1-cm lower left lobe nodule. A bone scan, also of January 2004, suggested progressive and newly extensive bony involvement with metastatic disease in the anterior calvarium, the left sternoclavicular region, several bilateral ribs, the sternum, the spine throughout its cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae, as well as multiple lesions in the pelvis, and at least two lesions in the right proximal femur.
Her condition on admission January 27, 2004, was good, although the recent rapid spread of her disease was a pressing concern. She was initiated successfully with 28 days of hospitalization for oral and IV nutritional therapy, detoxification, multiple injections of Coley’s toxins, and 4 PUVA-photopheresis sessions with manufacture of a take-home supply of frozen, live dendritic cells for period injections. Her ongoing treatment included consolidation with the Issels autologous vaccine. She was discharged in excellent condition.
By the end of March 2004, after only two months of treatment, a CT of the chest revealed that the two previously described pulmonary nodules had decreased in size so much that the left lower lobe nodule was barely visible. A March 2004 pelvic CT noted both the lumbar spine metastasis and the irregular demineralization and sclerosis within the bony pelvis. A late-May bone scan showed a decrease in intensity of some of the central lesions raising the possibility of interval improvement, and by mid-July 2004 a pelvic CT no longer demonstrated demineralization or sclerosis, although a chest CT could still delineate the lingular mass in the left lung, and a new set of scans in November 2004 showed no real change.
Over the December 2004 January 2005 holidays, she was given a break from vaccinations, and vacationed with her family for five weeks. On her return to commence treatment once again, she had another round of CT scans (March 2005) and was rewarded with the finding her lungs are entirely tumor-free with only slight scarring. Her condition is robust; she has no cough, fever, sweats, or fatigue, and has resumed treatment with the intent to finish the job. October 2005, her spirits are high, and her energy excellent.
May 25, 2007 follow-up: A PET scan compared to the one dated 11.28.2006 reveals the following:
1. Stable uptake in the left clavicle.
2. Stable hilar uptake, probably benign.
3. Widespread mottled appearance of the bones, but No FDG avidity, suggesting healed metastatic bone disease.
Catherine is in excellent condition and wrote a letter to the Issels Treatment Center on December 2007: "...I am so grateful for the Issels Treatment."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
17 months after starting the Issels Treatment her tumor markers are normal, she has no more pain, feels excellent and leads a very active life.
The 54 year old patient was diagnosed as suffering from B Cell Lymphoma Non-Hodgkin Folicular Low Grade in 2001. She chose no conventional treatment, but a strict diet. In 2005 she went through a period of high stress and began to experience symptoms such as intense pain in the left leg. In December 2005 CT and PET scans show metastatic disease in the left side of the sacrum. Her tumor sizes around the sacrum area measured 5.54cm x 3.38cm x 4.8cm, with a volume of 44.94 cubic cm. She was also diagnosed with multiple nodules on the neck and suspicious lesions in L4 and T10 in the pelvic area. Again, she didn't undergo chemotherapy or other standard cancer treatment, but chose the Issels Treatment instead. To quote, in her own words, "My famous oncologist urged me not to fly from Australia to the Issels Treatment Center as I would die on the way."
When she arrived at the Issels Treatment Center she complained of intense pain on the left leg and had difficulty walking. After the first weeks of treatment, the pain subsided. In July 2006, after 7 months of treatment, the CT Scan shows reduction of the tumor lesions in the left side of the sacrum to 5.7cm x 3.75cm x 4.5cm, and the volume of the tumor decreased to from 44.43 cubic cm to 42.77 cubic cm.
In March 2007 her tumor marker CEA of 0.2 to 0.5 ng/ml is within normal range. She is pain-free, in excellent condition, and reports to feel better than she has felt in many years.
June 23, 2007 update:
Jenny reports that her oncologist in Sydney examined her thoroughly: "I am very happy for you that you are doing so well under the Issels Treatment."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
After 1 month of Issels Treatment the liver and bone lesions show reduced metastatic activity.
D.R., 74, started the Issels Treatment with a three-month-old diagnosis of breast cancer with metastatic disease on the liver, bones and peritoneum. She came to the clinic in a wheelchair, with extensive edema in the lower extremities, and her tumor marker Ca 27-29 was very high at 564. After a month of treatment she was able to walk on her own, her edema in the lower extremities disappeared and her tumor marker decreased to 313.
A comparison in CT Scans before and after 1 month of Issels Treatment showed a marked decrease of cancer activity in the liver and bones.
After eight months into the Issels Treatment she is in very good condition and her tumor marker Ca 27-29 is down to 22.0.
April 4, 2007 follow-up: reports to be in a very good condition. Her tumor marker is down to 17.
April 21, 2007 update: The husband said in an email to one of the other Issels patients who has been in remission for 4 years now: "We are still in amazement."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
PSA decreased from 1,565 to 94 in 4 weeks
In his own words to Mrs. Issels on his day of discharge from the Issels Treatment Center: "The treatment result, the care by your doctors and nurses, the hospital atmosphere, simply everything surpassed my expectations." The 68 year old patient was diagnosed as suffering from prostate cancer in 1995. He underwent surgery in 1996 and received hormonal treatment with Lupron. In 2003 bone metastases were diagnosed and treated with radiation. He became hormone refractory. In July 2005 he was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with extensive very painful skeletal metastases which prevented him from walking. Upon admission his PSA count was 1,565 and during the 4-week intensive Issels Treatment including the vaccines it dropped to 94 end of July 2005. He presented in November 2005 for his first follow-up visit in much improved condition and was able to walk again.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumor masses
This 25 years old. woman developed a very fast growing tumor in her abdomen during the pregnancy with her first child. The tumor of a diameter of 11 x 8 cm was removed after the birth of her child in June 2004 and diagnosed as a poorly differentiated Synovial Sarcoma.
In November 2004 several nodules were found in her lungs and the CT scan of February 2005 showed that they were increasing in size. In March 2005 a tumor with a diameter of 6 x 7 cm was diagnosed at the same site as the first tumor.
In April 2005, the patient was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with inoperable abdominal tumor masses that pressed against the pancreas, spleen, vena cava, diaphragma.and mediastinum. At that point the estimated life expectancy by her oncologist was one week!
The intensive 4-week Issels Treatment including the vaccine protocol was very carefully initiated and T. responded extremely well. She could breathe again without oxygen and her general condition continued to improve during her follow-up treatment at home. After 3 months the large tumor masses encapsulated into one operable tumor and the patient was referred to surgery. She recovered very well and continues the Issels Treatment.
Her husband's own words in an email to the Issels Treatment Center on 09/09/2005:
"T. is now a month out of surgery, and she continues to get stronger. Her incision is healing nicely, but still a little tender. There is not much pain anymore, and so she just a few days ago stopped taking her pain medication…"
He continues to write on 09/18/05:
"T. feels great, and the Lord is blessing her with more energy everyday. She has been having so much fun playing with E., and cherishes every moment more after knowing what it was like to not be able to even get out of bed. The last CT Scan done (prior to this one) was before T.'s surgery, and this one from last week shows definite improvement from that. Most of the cancer in T.'s abdomen and chest is gone."
December 2005: T. is continuing the Issels Treatment at home and leads a normal life.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Referring oncologist stunned with Issels Treatment Results
The 53 old patient was diagnosed as suffering from a Mucoepidermoid Cancer of the parotid gland in May 1999. He underwent resection of the parotid gland followed by chemotherapy. In April 2004, he had a recurrence with lung metastases and received his second chemotherapy to no avail.
In June 2005, the patient was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with heavy pain due to the tumor mass in his right lung and shortness of breath, which kept him from walking. He experienced marked improvement during the intensive 4-week in-patient Issels treatment including the vaccine program, which he continued at home.
His progress in his wife’ own words on December 16, 2005: "Before we started the Issels Treatment in June 2005 my husband’s oncologist, Dr. J., gave him only one more month to live. In October 2005, 4 months into the Issels Treatment, when he listened to L.’s lungs, he was stunned. The right lung, which was "dead" for over a year due to the tumor mass, is now starting to be perfused with air, and we could see it also on the X-ray. The check-up in December showed even further improvement and the oncologist could not conceal his astonishment. He even said he had never experienced that a patient in L.’s condition improved and survived that long."
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
40 percent shrinkage of recurring hard breast tumor within 3 months
The 65 year old patient was diagnosed as suffering from Infiltrative Ductal Breast Cancer in April 2001. She underwent a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and hormone therapy. In 2002 the cancer recurred in her breast and spread to the bones. She contracted a pathological fracture in the lumbar region and received Zometa and radiation therapy. She also tried various alternative treatments to no avail.
In September 2005, she was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center with a hard tumor mass that infiltrated 2/3 of her breast, an open wound in the scar where the operation was performed in 2001, extensive metastases to her hip, pelvis and lumbar area. Heavy pain prevented her from walking. She underwent the intensive 4 week Issels in-patient treatment including the vaccine program combined with a one week low dose radiation therapy to her lumbar region.
She continued the Issels Treatment with the vaccines at home and presented to ITC for the first follow-up examination in December 2005. Her pain was gone and the hard tumor mass in her breast had shrunk by 40%. Patient J.R. was extremely happy and thankful for a regained life.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumors
Tamra’s Progress with the Issels Treatments (in her own words).
- January 14, 2004-started program
- January 17-I was able to pinch my nametag clip. I haven’t been able to pinch with my right hand in 6 months.(after 1st vaccine)
- January 19-I was able to pinch my hair clippy.
- January 20-The pinky on my left hand hadn’t been able to fully point, it would just curve. Today my pinky moved straight and pointed. My left hand also has been able to stretch out with all the fingers together for months and today it was able to.
- January 20-The tumor on my right wrist was very large and I have noticed it shrinking slightly
- January 22-I’m able to carry my meal tray around the cafeteria with both hands. I haven’t been able to carry anything with both hands while walking in months and was unable to do so the first few days at Oasis. My walking and balance is straighter and steadier each day.
- January 24-The soft tumor on my right wrist and knotty on left elbow are shrinking. I turned the key in the very hard lock.
- January 26-I was able to type with both hands. I haven’ been able to do that in 6 months.
- January 30-I was able to open/close a safety pin and open/close a ziplock bag. Both little but huge things since I haven’t been able to in 4 months.
- February 1-My balance and footing is better and straighter with steps and walking. I was able to turn the key in my car ignition and it’s been very difficult to do for 6 months.
- February 5-The tumor on my right wrist has shrunk a couple inches. (at this time I’ve had 6 dendritic vaccines)
- February 7-I can pinch the therapeutic clay with my left hand and haven’t been able to do that in 6 months.
- February 11-I can pull Velcro apart using the fingers of both hands, which I haven’t been able to do in 6 months.
- February 14-I am able to step up 1 step straighter and steadier.
- February 17-I performed an exercise where i was balancing while sitting on my knees and i haven’t been able to do that in 4 years. I’m doing exercises I haven’t been able to do in years because of so many surgeries that nerve damage has been involved and interferences with existing tumors. (at this time I’ve had 8 dendritic vaccine)
- February 19-first issels vaccine
- February 25-The soft tumor on my right wrist has shrunk another half inch, so in all it’s shrunk 2 and a half inches in length and is also smaller in width. The coloring in my face is brighter and the whites in my eyes whiter.
- March 2-My balance is steadier and I’m walking straighter. I can stand still for a couple minutes without knees shaking as much and I haven’t been able to do that in 5 years without leaning on something. My feet are also closer together when walking. (at this time I’ve had my 10th dendritic vaccine and 3rd issels vaccine.)
- March 7-I can bend my knees and squat down and touch the floor then stand back up which I haven’t been able to do in 4 years. While at the store I can squat and look at things on the bottom shelf. I’m just noticing steadier steps. I’m able to get up from the floor without the help of something or someone and my body is just overall working very well.
- March 10-I bounced a ball with my left hand while walking. I haven’t been able to do that in years.
- June 21 "I wanted to let you know that i conquered the mountain on my 23rd birthday and stood at the top VICTORIOUS. It was an amazing accomplishment!!! God is so good! I did better then i expected and just walked straight up with little assistance. It’s an awesome feeling to know i did that. A few years ago i went to a game at OU and had to have alot of help getting up the stairs and i was very unsteady but i headed straight up and only stopped once for a breath. I conquered those 83 steps and didn’t even get sore after!!!!!!!!! God bless! Love, Tamra"
- July 10, 2004 "I got back from Minnesota last week.I really had a great time and such great energy and walked good. I've been able to walk by myself a lot too-feeling steadier. The whole time i was there i was noticing accomplishments. I went out everyday for 2 weeks but did rest the day after my issels vaccine. My friends in Minnesota kept going on and on about how good I was doing and what a change from when they saw me last Jan before I started treatments. I had a big accomplishment last week on the lake. I haven’t ridden the boat in about 5 years b/c of the jarring and impact on your body.(I've had 6 surgeries in the last 7 years so my body was going through enough trauma). I rode it for an hour and did great! Also, my brother got me on the jetski with him and i haven't been on a jetski since i was 15. My body took everything well and i wasn't sore after! it was so awesome!!!!!!! It's dad's fault b/c he had the idea of the OU stadium and i went for that so now I'm UNSTOPABLE!!-lol It's such an awesome feeling to be able to do this stuff FINALLY!!!!! God bless, Tamra"
- December 19, 2005-"I'am doing good but have been crazy busy... My Christmas miracle this year is definitely my voice...I'm doing better with my energy and am working on my legs and balance.
Well, talk more later but theres a little update for you!
I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!
Love, Tamra"
I'm continuing to progress with the treatments and constantly in awe at my accomplishments. I'm doing stuff now that I haven’t been able to do in a long time. This summer I rode a jet ski and a boat, which I haven’t done in 10 years. Since I started treatments that have resulted in improvements, I've talked about heading up the mountain instead of down. So on my 23rd birthday I headed up the OU stadium and stood at the top VICTORIOUS!!! God is good! It was an amazing feeling to know I did and could do that because a few years ago at a game I had to have a lot of help. Last year at this time I could do almost nothing with my hands but now I'm learning sign and doing the small everyday things that are so often done unconsciously. The tumor on my wrist and others are continuing to shrink. My doctors are excited and encouraged with my progress. They are amazed at how well my body is fighting and that the tumors aren't growing. For 12 years the tumors have been active and damaging my body but through the treatments my body is constantly fighting to reclaim itself. Incorporating weekly vaccines and IVs into my school schedule has been hard because I've had no time for myself. Right when school is over for the week it's time for vaccine shots and the recovery that comes with them. However my body is adjusting better to this routine and the changes it's undergoing. At times it's still been hard but worth it because of the amazing changes I'm seeing. I've been on the treatments for almost a year and now have more energy, tons of improvements, and 500 shots to show for myself.
Tamra is a 22-year-old woman with an 11-year history of cranial, spinal, and other surgeries for neurofibromatosis type II, cerebellar pontine angle acoustic neuroma (Schwannoma). This disease strikes 1 in 50,000, and is widely regarded as an autosomal dominant disease of genetic origin, incurable, with no known treatments other than serial surgeries.
In mid-December, 2003, one month prior to her admission to the Issels Treatment Center, Tamra had been re-evaluated with MRIs of her cranium and cervical spine, as well as nerve conduction studies. In her cranial MRI, tumors too numerous to count were demonstrated in both ocular orbits, the mid falx, the left cerebellopontine angle cistern, the medical left temporal lobe, and the right and left medullary regions. In the MRI of her C-spine, multiple lesions were identified which had increased in both size and number in comparison with a scan of November 2002. Additional lesions were imaged at the top of the thoracic spine with signal characteristics suspicious for syrinx (fistula).
Her physical evaluation and nerve conduction studies revealed continuing deterioration of leg strength and control, with the problem extending during the last year to her arms and hands. She exhibited significant weakness and atrophy of both hands, left greater than right. A large 6-inch-long neurofibroma was observed on the right volar wrist, and another on the left upper arm close to the elbow. she had a claw-hand appearance. Nerve conduction studies both right and left ulnar nerves compromised below the elbows.
In short, Tamra had difficulty walking or standing, needing considerable assistance, and her hands hung useless at her sides unable to either grip or extend. She could not dress or care for herself without assistance. Her right orbit lesion had resulted in proptosis, with the eye protruding and pointed downward. She was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center January 14, 2004. Within the first two months of treatment, she experienced extraordinary recovery of nerve function, motor skills, and reduction of tumors. She continues her therapy at home, and keeps a treatment diary describing milestones in her recovery.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Constant shrinking of tumors
This 63-year-old aircraft repair specialist and amateur swing dancer presented with a left-sided neck mass, which was found to be a large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the nasopharynx. On staging, a lobulated mass was demonstrated replacing his left-sided superior nasopharynx and sprawling across the midline into the right-sided nasopharynx. Lymph nodes consistent with metastatic disease were demonstrated in the left retropharyngeal region, a large lobulated and matted left spinal accessory chain, as well as right-sided spinal accessory nodes. This type of cancer, having the growth and metastatic tendencies of a primary large-cell pulmonary neuroendocrine tumor, is rapidly fatal despite standardized radical neck dissection, chemotherapy (lung cancer drugs) and aggressive radiation therapy. R.F. studied the proposed treatments and refused. His doctors told him his prognosis was bleak and that he should hurry to get his affairs in order.
On admission to the Issels Treatment Center, R.F. exhibited an egg-sized mass protruding about halfway and engulfing the left-sided cervical lymph nodes. During his uneventful treatment over 28 days, this mass softened and shrank to the point that it was no longer visible. Sequential MRI’s (September and December 2004) reveal the complete disappearance of extracapsular tumor, leaving clearly defined lymph nodes. The nasopharyngeal mass has receded from the midline, and the left Eustachian tube has opened, restoring normal hearing and sensation. R.F. maintains a hectic dance card, traveling to far cities to compete in swing, ballroom, and country line dancing events. When he is not dancing, he enjoys biking 14 miles per day. He works fulltime in his aviation repair business and scrupulously continues his medical, nutritional, and vaccine treatments. His achievements thus far are extraordinary, and his outlook is excellent.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumors
This 35-year-old man presented with a left neck mass in January 2003, which was biopsied positive for nodular sclerosing Hodgkin’s disease. A CT scan revealed additional disease in the left supraclavicular, superior mediastinal, and prevascular spaces, while a corroborating PET scan demonstrated similar adenopathy as well as a 2-cm focal uptake in the splenic hilum. JB was treated with 6 cycles of ABVD (Adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine) from May 2003 through October 2003. On February 9, 2004, a palpable node in the left supraclavicular region was biopsied and found positive for recurrent nodular sclerosing Hodgkin’s disease. He was declared resistant to ABVD, and urgent arrangements were made for transfer to Moffit Hospital immediately for high-dose chemotherapy and peripheral stem cell transplant. JB declined further chemotherapy. He contacted the Issels Information Center and was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center one month later, on March 9, 2004. His attitude, understanding and compliance were excellent. Since admission, he has received full treatment with integrative immunotherapy. Despite his oncologists dire warnings and urgency for the most aggressive of standardized treatments, JB is the picture of health today. A late December 2004 MRI revealed only enlarged lymph nodes at the site of the excision biopsy of his recurrence. A full MRI investigation of his head, neck, and abdomen were otherwise clear. He continues treatment in excellent condition with no complaints.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumors
This 55-year-old Sudanese woman was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999, for which she underwent a mastectomy. She refused all chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and radiation therapy, choosing instead to attempt control of the disease through nutritional treatment alone (wheatgrass, fresh vegetable juices, auto-urine therapy) for about 2 years. By May 2003, metastases had developed in her lungs, with an upper left lobe nodular density of 1.2 cm, and an upper right nodule of 1.2 cm.
R.S. chose to be admitted in June 2003 to the Oasis of Hope Hospital for the Contreras treatment. Although her tumor marker CA 27.29 reduced from 76 (normal <38) to 34.1 by October 2003, a late-September CT scan revealed many new lung nodules with the largest of these measuring 2.6 cm on the right, and 1.7 cm on the left. By January 2004, her CA 27.29 was climbing again to 51.7, and it had reached 60 by February 2004. Therefore, in March of 2004, R.S. was discharged from the Contreras treatment and admitted to the Issels Treatment Center for comprehensive immunotherapy. A CT scan (March 2004) revealed that the disease in her lungs had grown, with the largest on the right now 3.18 cm.
Aggressive treatment was begun with vaccines (Issels autologous vaccine, Coley mixed bacterial vaccine, PUVA photopheresis/dendritic cell vaccine), internal medicine and nutrition. R.S. and her devoted husband labored vigilantly and were thoroughly compliant with all guidelines. A first follow-up CT scan in June 2004 demonstrated control of the disease with absolutely no changes in the number or size of the lesions. Finally, by October 2004, a new CT scan demonstrated significant interval decrease in size with the largest right-sided tumor shrinking from 3.18 cm to 2.3 cm in largest dimension (about 25% reduction in volume), with similar shrinkage of other smaller tumors. R.S. and her husband called the Issels Treatment Center in tears, joyful about the new CT results. Recent tests confirmed the slow healing process, with the last CT (January 2005) demonstrating additional mild interval improvement. R.S. is vitally healthy and energetic, as she has been throughout her treatment, which continues uneventfully.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
100% healthy today
This pleasant 44-year-old man was first diagnosed with a melanoma of the right posterior thigh on June 9, 2003, with metastatic melanoma found in the sentinel lymph node of the right groin in follow-up surgery on July 14, 2003. Therefore, his initial extent of disease was T3a, N1a, Mx, or stage IIIB. One month later, on August 13, 2003, a CT of the abdomen and pelvis identified a 2.5 x 3-cm soft tissue attenuation at the right cardiophrenic angle adjacent to the pericardium. A second 3-cm focal area of soft tissue attenuation was demonstrated in the right inguinal region. A September 2, 2003, PET scan revealed a very extensive 5 x 4-cm hypermetabolic area along the medial aspect of the right mid-to-lower lung field as well as a hypermetabolic area overlying the right femoral area. Because of the chest tumor, B.S. was now stage IV with a very poor and short prognosis.
B.S. rejected surgical plans for a radical inguinal lymphatic dissection and open-chest surgery to remove the mass in the right pulmonary region. His family has been very involved and was instrumental in his decision to be admitted to the Issels Treatment Center in early October 2003 for comprehensive immunotherapy. He was discharged in good condition on hospital day 29 having received diet therapy, internal medicine, vaccine-based immunotherapy (Coley, Issels), and PUVA-photopheresis with dendritic cell vaccine. A December 12, 2003, PET scan of the neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis, as well as both lower extremities, demonstrated remarkable interval improvement, revealing only a single 3.5-cm hypermetabolic area at the medial aspect of the right mid-to-lower lung field, reduced from 5 x 4 cm. The hypermetabolic area in the right inguinal region had entirely disappeared.
B.S. thrived on the treatment, losing 40 pounds from his overweight frame and gaining energy. Unfortunately, he stopped adhering fully to the vaccine management in early April (he discontinued the Issels autologous vaccine), but this was only revealed to his family after a PET scan of June 8, 2004, demonstrated that the hypermetabolic mass previously 3.5 cm had grown to 6 x 4 cm. The PET scan was confirmed by CT on June 10, 2004, which showed a 5 x 4-cm soft tissue mass density at the root of the ascending aorta and right lateral ventricle.
On August 25, 2004, a complete right pulmonectomy was performed, and a grapefruit-size mass was removed. B.S. tolerated the procedure well, recovered uneventfully, and was discharged home where he resumed the full comprehensive immunotherapy with remarkable, detailed, and emphatic support by his family. A follow-up CT in late December 2004 was completely clear, much to the astonishment of his surgeons according to family account.
As of March 2005, his brother reported that B.S. is fully recovered, back at work full time, and 100% compliant with the Issels treatment, which he plans to see through to its conclusion this time.
Brian S., 03/30/05 Brother of patient B.S. in an email to the Issels Medical Team:
…I have talked to many people about the Issels program since my brother, B.S., left the Issels treatment in the fall of 2003 (1 1/2 years already?). I remain convinced that my brother would not be with us today were it not for the alternative and aggressive treatment he received under the Issels program. As you know my brother was a stage 4 melanoma patient but he showed no sign of detectable cancer at his last CT scan (Dec 9th, 2004). B. is 100% healthy today and even if that changes tomorrow our family would still be grateful for having enjoyed the past year with him. Since he has had no other treatment this success can only be attributed to Issels…
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Dramatic tumor reduction
A British sports hero began the Issels Treatment for his far-advanced, high- grade leiomyosarcoma that had been steadfastly refractory to multiple combination and high-dose chemotherapy since his diagnosis in May 2002. This list of failed chemotherapies was long and included Adriamycin/ifosfamide, high-dose ifosfamide, gemcitabine/Taxotere, and DTIC.
Three weeks before his admission to the Issels Treatment Center, he had received very bad news: despite dacarbazine and all the other drugs before it, his disease was active, growing and disseminating. There was CT evidence of an increase in the size of his rib metastases with the largest one bulging into the upper right lung; there was growth in several of his lung metastases; there was extension of his liver metastases, the largest of which 5 x 5 cm. A persistent left-sided hydronephrosis was unchanged and the responsible ureter-compressing gigantic lower-pelvic mass (10 x 9 x 8.5 cm) remained the same. A mass posturomedial to the left acetabulum had also grown to 3.5 cm and a new 1.5 cm nodule had appeared in his left adrenal gland. His spleen had been removed and the splenic parenchyma was 30% replaced by intermediate growing leiomyosarcoma.
On admission to the Issels Treatment Center in June 2003, this former world class athlete was very weak and extremely hampered in range of motion of his right shoulder, unable to lift his arm above his head. He could not work, exercise or even lift his suitcase. On examination, his thorax was asymmetric, with pronounced right-sided muscular atrophy and edema. A 15-cm mass was palpable at his enlarged right scapular region. There was a visible protrusion measuring 3 cm on his posterolateral thorax at the level of the seventh rib. His liver was enlarged to 2 cm below his rib cage. During his stay, KW experienced dramatic tumor reduction of the palpable tumors.
By November, his scapular and thoracic superficial metastases were barely detectable. He had gained weight and strength, regularly attended the gym for workouts, walked 1.5 miles to his daughter and walked the 1.5 mile return trip. He could lift normal weights, such as suitcases without difficulty. He had been painting his deck with his formerly immobile right arm, which now freely extended above his head. In January 2004 he returned for a short follow-up program in very good condition.
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
Remission of tumors
In October 2002, patient M.F. was admitted with infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast with extensive lymph involvement and bone metastases to her shoulder and several vertebrae. Her surgical pathology report of September 18, 2002, revealed high-grade infiltrating ductal carcinoma. Her largest tumor was the size of a small fist (8.3 cm), with 12 axillary lymph nodes replaced by tumor growth with extranodal extension and matting, the largest extension the size of a nickle measuring 2.4 cm. Her PET scan of Oct. 7, 2002, revealed metastases in the right scapular and left iliac boney structures, with probable metastases in her lower dorsal and lumbar spine. Infiltrated lymph nodes were demonstrated in the bilateral hilar and perihilar regions, the axilla, and a long peritracheal chain was visualized. She was on heavy pain medication, very nauseated and depressed. Within 2 weeks of the beginning of our comprehensive treatment including Coley's vaccine, a palpable chest wall metastasis disappeared. From the 19th day of the treatment she did not require any pain medication and was no longer nauseated. She regained her appetite and left the hospital in much improved condition and good spirits with instructions to continue her follow-up program at home.
On January 7, 2003, a new PET scan revealed the following: "There is marked improvement in the interval with resolution of most of the bilateral hilar metabolic lymph node activity... There is marked diminished activity in what was thought to represent a metastasis to the right scapular region...There is resolution of a previous left pelvic lesion and several lumbar lesions seen on the study of 10/7/02. No new metastatic disease is seen on the current study."
M.F. was seen mid-February by Dr. Yolanda Mejia at the Issels Treatment Center and was found to be in excellent health with wonderful prospects for the future. She returned home to complete her therapy and resume her productive life.
From 06/27/03 until now, April 2004, M.F. has been under follow-up treatment at the Issels Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and her health has further improved.
April 2004, in her own words: "I am very grateful to Dr. Christian Issels and Dr. Jonathan Psenka. They have given me a very special treatment and I have not felt so good in many years. I can do things now that I could not do several months ago. My husband is overjoyed, as are my children and I can now resume my very active life. Also the PET scan of March 30, 2004 shows that I am stable".
>>> For ADDITIONAL INFORMATION on Treatment and Costs please click here or CALL 1.888.447.7357.
>>> To read the ISSELS TREATMENT SUMMARY, please click here for details.
"I feel great"
This 41-year-old woman's breast cancer was originally diagnosed and treated in 1996 with a lumpectomy and a completely negative right axillary node dissection. Positive margins forced a segmental excision in September 1996. By January 1997, F.L. was operated for a recurrence in the surgical bed. She had a simple right mastectomy with a TRAM reconstruction, followed by 8 cycles of Cytoxan, methotrexate, and fluorouracil.
An emergency room CT scan for shortness of breath in February 2003 demonstrated bilateral right-greater-than-left pleural effusions, a right-pleural lobular density consistent with metastatic implants, and nodular densities within both lungs consistent with metastatic neoplasia. A CT-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy on February 4, 2003, confirmed metastatic, well-differentiated carcinoma consistent with her 1996 breast primary. Bone studies of both February 7 and 11, 2003, demonstrated metastatic involvement of the spine at T3-T4.
One week later, F.L. was admitted to the Issels Treatment Center