Scientists have developed a new treatment for pancreatic cancer, which is considered the most deadly type of the disease. This was reported by RIA Novosti with reference to the work of British and Chinese researchers, published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer.
Experts have found that pancreatic cancer can be treated with an altered smallpox virus. Scientists have modified the oncolytic vaccinia virus to improve its safety and also have it elicit a stronger immune response against cancer. It is noted that the use of a therapeutic platform, including the use of smallpox virus for treatment, significantly increased the survival rate of patients with pancreatic cancer.
It is noted that the survival rate for pancreatic cancer is traditionally one of the lowest among oncological diseases. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy also usually do not help treat this condition.
Earlier, doctors discovered an unexpected symptom of cancer. Oncologists said that scars, bumps and itching on the palms can be signs of a fatal disease. They explained that 90 percent of cases of scarring of the palms are due to internal malignancies.
