Brendan Curti, M.D.
Medical Oncologist
Medical Director, Providence Melanoma Program
Providence Cancer Institute
Brendan Curti is a highly esteemed medical oncologist who currently serves as the Medical Director of the Providence Melanoma Program at Providence Cancer Institute. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Dr. Curti has become a leading expert in treating and researching melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
After earning his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine, Dr. Curti completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University. He then went on to complete a fellowship in Medical Oncology at Georgetown University before joining Providence Cancer Institute.
As a medical oncologist, Dr. Curti specializes in diagnosing and treating various types of cancer using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and other advanced treatments.
Cellular Therapy for Melanoma: TIL the Future?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs when the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, become abnormal and grow out of control. It is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer, as it can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Fortunately, recent advancements in cellular therapy have shown promising results in treating melanoma. Cellular therapy involves using immune cells from a patient's own body to attack and destroy cancer cells.
One type of cellular therapy being studied for melanoma treatment is called TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte) therapy. This approach involves extracting specific immune cells from a patient's tumor, multiplying them in a lab, and then re-infusing them back into the patient's body. These TILs are trained to target and attack cancer cells, effectively boosting the body's own immune system.
Another type of cellular therapy being explored is called CAR T-cell therapy. This involves genetically modifying a patient's own immune cells to better recognize and fight against melanoma cells. The modified cells are then reintroduced into the patient's body, where they can continue to reproduce and fight against cancer cells.
Both of these therapies have shown promising results in clinical trials, with some patients experiencing complete remission from their melanoma. While more research is needed, these cutting-edge treatments offer hope for those battling this aggressive form of skin cancer.
In addition to cellular therapy, other treatment options for melanoma include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments may be used in combination with each other or with new immunotherapy treatments to provide the best outcome for patients.
It's important to note that prevention and early detection are key in fighting against melanoma. Avoiding excessive sun exposure and regularly checking your skin for any changes or unusual moles can greatly decrease your risk of developing this type of cancer. If you do notice any concerning changes, it's important to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
In conclusion, while melanoma is a serious form of cancer, there are constantly evolving treatment options available that offer hope for patients. Continued research and advancements in cellular therapy and immunotherapy show great promise in improving outcomes for those affected by this disease. Remember to prioritize your skin health and seek medical attention if you have any concerns. Together, we can work towards a world without melanoma. Stay safe and stay protected.