Blood Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi NCR, India

Overview Blood cancer is a malignancy affecting the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system, impacting the production and function of blood cells. It originates in the bone marrow, the central site for blood production. Stem cells in the bone marrow mature into three types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In blood cancer, the blood production process is disrupted due to the abnormal growth of blood cells.

At Metro Hospitals, we understand the high stakes involved in treating this life-threatening disorder. Our dedicated team of oncologists and support staff leverage cutting-edge technology to provide personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best possible outcomes. We offer compassionate care and support throughout the patient’s journey to recovery.

Types of Blood Cancer The primary types of blood cancer include leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

Leukemia Leukemia is caused by the rapid production of abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow, hindering the production of red blood cells and platelets. Types of leukemia include:

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Rapidly progressing cancer affecting lymphoid cells.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Slow-growing cancer affecting lymphoid cells, typically in older adults.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Rapidly progressing cancer affecting myeloid cells.
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A slowly progressing cancer that affects the myeloid cells.

Lymphoma Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, responsible for removing excess fluids and producing immune cells. Abnormal lymphocytes become lymphoma cells, growing uncontrollably in lymph nodes and other tissues. Types of lymphoma include:

• Hodgkin Lymphoma: Identified by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, with subtypes including classical Hodgkin lymphoma and nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Numerous subtypes, including Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Follicular Lymphoma, Mantle Cell Lymphoma, Burkitt Lymphoma, Marginal Zone Lymphoma, and T-cell Lymphomas.

Myeloma Myeloma affects plasma cells, which produce disease-fighting antibodies. It disrupts plasma cell production, weakening the immune system.

Blood Cancer Symptoms Symptoms of blood cancer vary but commonly include:

• Fatigue and persistent tiredness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Frequent infections
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Bone or joint pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Night sweats
• Fever
• Kidney problems

Causes of Blood Cancer While there isn’t a single, well-defined cause for blood cancers, several factors can increase the risk, including:

• Genetic factors and inherited mutations
• Acquired genetic mutations from environmental exposure
• Age and gender
• Ionizing radiation exposure
• Chemical exposure (e.g., benzene, pesticides)
• Viral infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus)
• Immune system disorders
• Previous cancer treatments
• Chronic inflammatory conditions

Blood Cancer Diagnosis Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Checking for symptoms and signs like swollen lymph nodes.
• Blood Tests: Complete Blood Count (CBC) & peripheral blood smear.
• Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: Examining bone marrow samples for cancer cells.
• Imaging Studies: CT, MRI, PET scans, and X-rays.
• Lymph Node Biopsy: Examining enlarged lymph nodes.
• Cytogenetic Testing: Checking chromosomes within cancer cells.
• Flow Cytometry and Molecular Testing: Analyzing cell characteristics and genetic mutations.
• Spinal Tap (Lumbar Puncture): Analyzing cerebrospinal fluid.
• Histological Examination: Studying tissue samples under a microscope.

Blood Cancer Stages Staging helps determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment:

• Leukemia: Classified as acute (fast-growing) or chronic (slow-growing).
• Lymphoma: Staged using the Ann Arbor system (Stages I-IV).
• Multiple Myeloma: Staged using the International Staging System (ISS).

Blood Cancer Treatment Metro Hospitals provide a range of treatments for blood cancer, including:

• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or control cancer cell growth.
• Radiation Therapy: High doses of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Stimulates the immune system to recognize & destroy cancer cells.
• Bone Marrow Transplantation: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer cell growth.
• Hormone Therapy: Blocks or interferes with hormone activity in certain blood cancers.
• Supportive Therapies: Blood transfusions, growth factors, and antibiotics to manage symptoms and side effects.

Blood Cancer Prevention Preventing blood cancers is challenging, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, protecting against viral infections, minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals & regular health check-ups can contribute to overall well-being & potentially reduce risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is blood cancer curable?

Some forms are curable, while others may be managed as chronic conditions.

What are survival rates for blood cancer?

Survival rates vary widely depending on the type, stage, and individual factors.

Can early blood cancer be cured?

Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Is acute blood cancer curable?

Acute blood cancers can be challenging to treat but are often responsive to intensive therapies.

What is the difference between acute & chronic blood cancer?

Acute blood cancers progress rapidly and require immediate treatment, while chronic blood cancers progress more slowly and may be managed as long-term conditions.

Can blood cancer be detected early?

Early detection is possible through various diagnostic tests, including blood tests and imaging studies.

Reviewed & Updated On:
Reviewed by Dr. R.K. Choudhary, Director & Head – Medical Oncology, Hemato Oncology & BMT on 25-July-2024.