Livingston-Wheeler
Caution: Some complementary agents or therapies may be useful for cancer patients; however, some may be harmful in certain situations. MD Anderson Cancer Center cautions patients to consult with their oncologist before attempting to use any agents or therapies referenced on these pages. Inclusion of an agent, therapy or resource on this CIMER Web site does not imply endorsement by MD Anderson Cancer Center.
- Review is based upon articles published as of 6/30/2004
- Information on the scientific basis of the Livingston therapy is provided in the Detailed Scientific Review
Description
Virginia Livingston-Wheeler, M.D., identified a bacterium that she named Progenitor cryptocides and that she believed was the cause of cancer. Theorizing that it became pathogenic only when the immune response was inadequate, she developed a treatment designed to stimulate the patient’s immune system.
Between 1969 and 2003, The Livingston Foundation Medical Center in San Diego offered a multiple approach to cancer treatment that included psychosocial intervention, group support, training in relaxation and imagery, vaccines (broad spectrum and specific), antibiotics, anti-parasite medicine, megavitamins, nutritional supplements, digestive enzymes, enemas and a vegetarian whole-foods diet.
Dose
Doses and programs are individually determined by Livingston Foundation physicians.
How it is taken
The Livingston treatments are no longer offered as the clinic has closed.
Side effects
Reactions to the vaccines were described as malaise, aching, slight fever and tenderness at the injection site.
In 1990, the California Health Department ordered that the Livingston Foundation Clinic stop treating patients with vaccines cultured from patients' own blood. However, a 1997 article indicated that these vaccines were still being used.
Important Advice
To avoid potential interactions, be sure to let your health care provider know if you use this or any other type of complementary therapy.
Authors and Editors
Initial authorship:
Nancy C. Russell, Dr.P.H., senior health education specialist, Integrative Medicine Program Education Component
Reviewers and editors:
Mary Ann Richardson, Dr.P.H., director of the former University of Texas Center for Alternative Medicine
Tina Sanders, M.S., research assistant, former University of Texas Center for Alternative Medicine
Stephen P. Tomasovic, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs