What is Gene therapy used for?
Gene therapy is used to correct defective genes in order to cure a disease or help the body better fight disease. It can involve replacing mutated genes, fixing mutated genes, making diseased cells more evident to the immune system, and other methods. Currently in the United States, gene therapy is available only as part of a clinical trial.
How to prepare for Gene therapy?
Patient preparation for a gene therapy test may vary depending on the specific type of gene therapy and the disease being treated. However, in general, patients participating in a gene therapy clinical trial might be required to:
- Undergo medical evaluations: Patients will likely need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine if they are eligible for the clinical trial and to assess their overall health.
- Provide medical history: Patients will be asked to provide their medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, and current medications.
- Disclose current medications: Patients may need to stop taking certain medications before the test, such as blood thinners or immune-suppressing drugs, as these could interfere with the gene therapy process.
- Follow specific dietary instructions: Depending on the therapy, patients may be required to follow specific dietary instructions in the days leading up to the test.
- Maintain proper hydration: Patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids before and during the test to help facilitate the administration of the gene therapy.
Specific patient preparation requirements for a gene therapy test will be provided by the healthcare professionals conducting the clinical trial. It is important to follow their instructions carefully to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the therapy.
How are Gene therapy results reported?
The given text does not provide specific information about how gene therapy results are reported. However, clinical trials help doctors determine the safety and effects of gene therapy on the body. The results of these trials are likely reported in scientific journals and presented at medical conferences. Additionally, individual patients may receive information about their own treatment outcomes from their healthcare providers.