Blood Cancer: Understanding the Disease and its Treatment Options

By Dr. R K Choudhary in Cancer Medical Oncology

Feb 10, 2023

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. The most common types of blood cancers include leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. These cancers affect the production and function of blood cells, leading to anemia, infections, and bleeding.

Classification of Blood Cancers:

Leukemia: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects the production of white blood cells. There are four main types of leukemia: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system that affects the production and function of lymphatic system, mainly lymph nodes. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Myeloma: Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. This cancer affects the production of antibodies, leading to a weakened immune system.

Symptoms and Diagnosis:

The symptoms of blood cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.

Diagnosis of blood cancer usually begins with a physical exam and medical history. Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry tests, can help determine the type and stage of the disease. Other diagnostic tests may include bone marrow biopsy, CT scan, and PET scan.

Treatment Options:

Treatment options for blood cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the age and overall health of the patient.

Some common treatments include:

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given in pill form or through an IV, and is often used in combination with other treatments.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with chemotherapy or other treatments.
• Stem Cell Transplant: A stem cell transplant is a procedure that replaces damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This treatment can be used for some types of leukemia and myeloma.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that targets specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. This type of treatment is often used in combination with chemotherapy.
• Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove tumors or other masses in the blood or lymphatic system.
• Supportive Care: Supportive care includes treatments and services that help manage symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment. This can include physical therapy, pain management, and support groups.

Conclusion

Though blood cancer is considered a serious and potentially life-threatening disease, but with early detection and timely treatment, many people are able to manage the disease and maintain a good quality of life. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with blood cancer, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage blood cancer and enjoy a fulfilling life