Blood cancers are a group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system. It occurs when there is an abnormal growth of blood cells that do not function
properly and may lead to serious health problems. The three main types of blood cancer include leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
Symptoms
Symptoms of blood cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer but may include:
- Fatigue
- Persistent fever
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bone pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Frequent infections
Diagnosis
Blood cancer can be diagnosed through a series of tests or procedures including:
Blood tests:
Complete blood count (CBC) can detect abnormalities in the count of blood cells, such as low platelet count or abnormal white blood cells. Additional blood tests may also be
done to look for chemicals in your blood or changes in the appearance of blood cells.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scan, MRI, or PET scan may be used to look for tumors or abnormalities in the soft tissue, bones, spine, lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
Bone marrow biopsy: A small sample of bone marrow is taken from the hipbone or breastbone and examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. This procedure is usually done under local
anesthesia.
Lymph node biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken from an enlarged lymph node and examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.
Treatment
The main treatments for blood cancer depend on the type, stage, and molecular features of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and other factors. Some of the
main treatments for blood cancer include:
Chemotherapy:
This is a type of medication that kills cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given orally, subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (through an IV) and may be used alone
or in combination with other treatments.
Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used to treat localized tumors or to prepare for a stem cell transplant.
Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation:
This procedure replaces damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy cells. The cells can be taken from the patient (autologous transplant) or from a donor (allogeneic
transplant).
Targeted therapy:
This is a newer type of medication that specifically targets cancer cells and may have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. This can be given orally,
subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously (through an IV).
Immunotherapy:
This uses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments. This can be given orally, subcutaneously
(under the skin) or intravenously (through an IV).
Surgery: This may be used to remove tumors or to perform a biopsy.
