Latest Research on Lacrimal Gland Tumor

Executive Summary

There are several latest research studies to gain more information on lacrimal gland tumors on various topics such as prevention methods, diagnostic process at the initial phase, and best treatment strategies. Radioimmunotherapy is a treatment procedure that combines the effectiveness of both radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) is the most common form of radioimmunotherapy to treat lymphoma. New radiation therapy procedures are under study to eliminate tumors by causing significantly less or no damage to the rest of the eye region. Many studies also analyze new combinations of chemo drugs for treating patients with tumor growth in the lacrimal gland. Clinical studies are currently being conducted to find new ways to reduce the symptoms and side effects of current lacrimal gland tumor treatments while improving the comfort and quality of life of the patient.

Advancement in Lacrimal Gland Tumor Research

Scientists and doctors are constantly analyzing and learning more about lacrimal gland tumors. Hence, they are trying to devise better strategies to prevent and treat the disease. Therefore, many studies focus on discovering methods to provide the best possible treatment and care for people with a tumor in the lacrimal gland.

Many clinical trials test different treatment options for various lacrimal gland tumors. And so, patients and caretakers are encouraged to talk with the doctor to learn about all the best available diagnostic methods, treatment options, and current research concerning lacrimal gland tumors. 

The latest advancements concerning lacrimal gland tumor treatment and care are the following ^​1​.

Radioimmunotherapy

Radioimmunotherapy is a treatment procedure that combines the effectiveness of both radiation therapy and immunotherapy ^​2​. In this, radioactive material is attached to a protein that identifies and specifically targets the tumor cells. Thereafter, a monoclonal antibody carries the radiation to the target tumor cells. subsequently, the radioactivity kills and destroys the cells with which it comes in contact. Ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) is the most common form of radioimmunotherapy for treating lymphoma.

Improved radiation therapy

New radiation therapy procedures are under study to eliminate tumors by causing significantly less or no damage to the rest of the eye region. One such radiation procedure used to treat certain types of eye cancer is called intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT).

Chemotherapy

Many studies analyze new combinations of chemo drugs for treating patients with tumor growth in the lacrimal gland ^​3​.

Palliative care/supportive care

There are various clinical studies are that currently underway to find new ways to reduce the symptoms and side effects of lacrimal gland tumor treatments. While palliative care aims to improve the comfort and quality of life of the patient.

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