Woman Overcomes Rare Cancer with Innovative Treatment at National Center for Oncological Hadrontherapy
Elena, a woman in her early 40s, found herself facing a rare and aggressive cancer that threatened her quality of life. Diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma of the vulva, a cancer resistant to traditional treatments, Elena was left with few options. However, thanks to the innovative ‘mixed beam’ treatment at the National Center for Oncological Hadrontherapy (Cnao) in Pavia, Elena was able to fight and win her battle against cancer.
The treatment, which combines carbon ions and protons, targeted the tumor with sub-millimeter precision while saving the surrounding healthy tissues. This approach, used in only 6 centers in the world and exclusively in Italy at Cnao, proved to be a game-changer for Elena. Just over a year after treatment, Elena is now symptom-free and in both clinical and radiological response.
Adenoid cystic carcinomas are rare neoplasms that usually develop in the head and neck area, making Elena’s case even more unique. The cancer had caused severe, uncontrolled pain in her pelvic area, affecting her quality of life. However, with the multidisciplinary approach taken by the team at Cnao and other specialist centers in Pavia, Elena was able to overcome the disease and reclaim her life.
Elena’s story of hope and resilience sends a powerful message, especially on National Women’s Health Day. Women’s well-being, particularly when it comes to taboo topics like sexual health after cancer treatment, needs to be addressed and supported. Elena’s journey, supported by her husband and a dedicated medical team, highlights the importance of advanced treatments and multidisciplinary care in rare cancer cases.
As Ester Orlandi, director of the Clinical Department of Cnao, emphasizes, the goal of oncology today is to restore an adequate quality of life to patients. For rare tumors like the one Elena faced, access to specialized centers and innovative treatments like hadrontherapy is crucial. Through collaborations like Euracan, a European network on rare tumors, more patients can benefit from cutting-edge therapies and a comprehensive approach to cancer care.
Elena’s success story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and patient-centered care in the fight against cancer. Her journey of overcoming obstacles and finding strength in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to women everywhere battling similar challenges. Elena’s victory over cancer reminds us that with determination and access to the right resources, anything is possible.