Charcoal
Charcoal is ash and carbon residue from animal and plant substances. Charcoal has been used for treatment of upset stomach. Charcoal has been studied in patients with cancer for prevention of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea.
Chamomilla recutita
This botanical substance is extracted from the flowerhead of the matricaria flower known as Chamomilla recutita, which is found throughout Europe and northern Asia. The extract is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects as well as antiseptic and healing properties.
Chamomile Cream and Almond Ointment
Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family. Chamomile extract has been used in topical formulations in treating skin problems and irritation. Almond oil extracted from the almond nut has been used as a moisturizer. A combination of chamomile cream and almond ointment was evaluated in patients with cancer for the prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis.
Cell Transplant
Direct, local cell transplants have been tested for effects on cancer-related lymphedema. Stromal cells obtained from the bone marrow are stem cells that can differentiate into various cell types, potentially including lymphatic cell types. In the process of stromal cell transplantation, autologous stromal cells were transplanted around the axillary region and affected areas of the chest wall in patients who had previous breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy to evaluate effect on lymphedema.
Celiac Plexus Block
A celiac plexus block is a procedure that damages the celiac nerves with the intent to ease pain. A celiac plexus block can be performed during surgery, during an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), or by using a percutaneous approach (i.e., going through the skin). In all cases, a doctor will first inject an anesthetic to numb the celiac nerves and then inject a substance to damage the nerves. The effects of the anesthetic are almost instantaneous but are not long lasting.
Celiac Ganglion Irradiation
Celiac ganglion irradiation via implantation of iodine-125 seeds into the celiac ganglion was examined in patients with chronic pain from pancreatic cancer. Because radioactive rays injure neural tissue, this approach is a potential alternative way to accomplish neurolysis for pancreatic pain.
Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa, Uncaria guianesis)
Cat's claw is a wood vine that grows wild in central and South America, particularly in the Amazon rainforest. Historically, cat's claw has been used to prevent and treat disease dating back to the Inca civilization. Its inner bark is used to make liquids, capsules, and teas, and preparations can be applied to the skin. Cat's claw may have some properties to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Cat's claw has been examined for its effects on sleep-wake disturbances, fatigue, anxiety, and depression in patients with cancer.
Catheter Care Bundle for Prevention of Central Line Associated Infection (CLABSI)
A catheter care “bundle” includes the provision of care using a standard combination of interventions to prevent central line associated blood stream infections (CLABSIs). This combination includes hand hygiene, use of maximum sterile barriers at line insertion, cleansing the insertion site with chlorhexidine, avoiding use of the femoral and jugular sites for line insertion, and prompt removal of unnecessary catheters.
Carnitine/L-Carnitine
Acetyl-l-carnitine (γ-trimethyl-β-acetylbutyrobetaine [ALC]) is the acetyl ester of carnitine. ALC is present throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems, plays an essential role in the oxidation of free fatty acids, and has displayed neuroprotective properties. Carnitine is available without a prescription as a dietary supplement, and is found in highest concentrations in red meat and dairy products.
Caregiver/Partner Interventions
Caregiver/partner interventions refer to provision of a specific intervention to a patient’s informal caregiver, spouse, or partner in an attempt to affect the patient's symptoms. Caregiver/partner interventions involving education and enhancing partner adjustment to the patient’s illness have been studied in patients with cancer in an attempt to manage patient anxiety.