Bone Marrow Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

Bone marrow cancer encompasses various malignancies affecting the cells within the bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones. This category includes conditions like leukemia, multiple myeloma, and lymphoma. Approximately 1.2 million individuals globally are diagnosed with bone marrow cancers annually. These cancers disrupt the normal production and function of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which are crucial for the body’s immune response and other functions. Advances in medical treatments have significantly improved patient outcomes in recent years.

Types of Bone Marrow Cancer

Bone marrow cancers are classified based on the type of cells affected:

1. Leukemia

Leukemia involves the abnormal proliferation of white blood cells (WBCs), impairing normal blood and bone marrow functions. It is categorized into:

• Acute Leukemia: Characterized by the rapid growth of immature WBCs called blasts, comprising 20% or more in the blood or bone marrow.
• Chronic Leukemia: Involves the excessive accumulation of more mature WBCs.

2. Multiple Myeloma

This cancer type affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. Multiple myeloma disrupts the normal production and function of these cells.

3. Lymphoma

Lymphoma affects lymphocytes, a type of WBC crucial to the immune system. It is divided into:

Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Involves the abnormal growth of B lymphocytes.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Can affect either B or T lymphocytes, leading to immune system dysfunction.

Bone Marrow Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the cancer type, location, severity, and progression rate.

Symptoms of Leukemia

• Bone pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Petechiae (small red spots on the skin)
• Weakness and fatigue
• Frequent infections
• Fever and chills
• Enlarged liver or spleen
• Easy bruising
• Night sweats

Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma

• Weakness and fatigue
• Increased risk of infections
• Frequent urination
• Confusion and increased thirst
• Bone pain and risk of fractures
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Back pain
• Kidney failure

Symptoms of Lymphoma

• Persistent cough
• Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, underarms, or groin
• Itchy skin, rashes, or skin lumps
• Fever, weight loss, and night sweats
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• An enlarged spleen causing a feeling of fullness

Causes of Bone Marrow Cancer

The exact causes of bone marrow cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors may contribute, including:

• Compromised immune system (e.g., post-transplant, immunosuppressive drugs, HIV)
• Exposure to harmful radiation, chemicals, and pesticides
• Genetic predisposition
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Obesity

Diagnosis of Bone Marrow Cancer

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical examination & various diagnostic tests:

• Blood and Urine Tests: Assess kidney function, electrolyte levels, and blood cell counts, including complete blood count (CBC), tumor markers, and metabolic profile.
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: Examines the presence of cancer cells in the bone marrow.
• Imaging: X-rays, PET scans, CT scans, and MRIs detect structural changes in the bones.

Confirmatory tests, like bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, are essential for determining the specific cancer type. Imaging techniques assess disease progression, and lymph node biopsy is crucial for suspected lymphoma cases.

Treatment Options for Bone Marrow Cancer

Treatment depends on factors such as age, cancer type, stage, and overall health. Common treatments include:

• Chemotherapy: Administration of drugs that target and destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors, alleviate pain, and kill cancer cells.
• Stem Cell/Bone Marrow Transplant: Replaces cancerous bone marrow with healthy donor cells, often following chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
• Targeted Drug Therapy (Immunotherapy): Drugs that specifically target cancer cells.
• Biological Therapy: Utilizes the patient’s immune system to attack cancer cells, including CAR-T cell therapy.

Complications of Bone Marrow Cancer

Untreated bone marrow cancer can lead to severe complications, including weakened immunity, increased infection risk, and overall deterioration of health.

Risk Factors of Bone Marrow Cancer

Key risk factors include:

• Immunosuppression
• Exposure to radiation, chemicals, and pesticides
• Family history of cancer
• Smoking and alcohol use
• Obesity

Prognosis of Bone Marrow Cancer

The prognosis for bone marrow cancer varies significantly based on individual response to treatment, cancer stage, and overall health. Specific survival rates include:

• Adult Acute Leukemia: 40-70% curable (80-90% in children)
• Lymphoma: 50-60% curable
• Low-Grade Lymphoma: Can extend life expectancy by 10-20 years
• Multiple Myeloma: Life expectancy can be prolonged by 5-8 years

Reviewed & Updated On

Reviewed by Dr. Sumant Gupta, Director – Metro Cancer Institute, specializing in Pediatric Oncology, Stem Cell Therapy, Hematology & Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT), Medical Oncology, on July 30, 2024.

Metro Hospital offers advanced treatment options, experienced specialists, and a comprehensive care approach, making it a top choice for bone marrow cancer treatment in Delhi, India.