A diagnosis of a blood cancer, such as leukemia or lymphoma, is daunting. But with the care available from the hematology and oncology specialists at WMCHealth, the way forward is hopeful. Our team of experts is committed to advancing treatments for blood cancers through clinical trials and cutting-edge research done at our academic medical center. The treatments at WMCHealth include bone marrow and stem cell transplants. In fact, WMCHealth has the most active bone-marrow transplant program in the region.
What Is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancers, often called hematologic malignancies, begin in the bone marrow, which is responsible for producing blood cells. Typically, blood cells divide to form new cells when the body needs them. But when a person has blood cancer, the process is disrupted, leading to an abnormal growth and division of the cells. These diseases often require long-term treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Symptoms of Blood Cancers
Like with many forms of cancer, early detection is best for the successful treatment of blood cancers. Awareness of the common signs can prompt patients to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Unexplained anemia or other blood count abnormalities
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent infections
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Swollen lymph nodes
Types of Blood Cancer
Of all cancer cases worldwide, 14% are blood-related. There are three main types of blood cancers:
- Leukemia: Leukemia begins in the bone marrow but often moves into the blood. It can be either acute, developing rapidly, or chronic, progressing slowly with symptoms that may not appear for years.
- Lymphoma: A blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system
- Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow
Innovative Services at WMCHealth
The specialists at the Cancer Center at Westchester Medical Center and the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital work in multidisciplinary teams to address the diagnosis and treatment of blood-related diseases in adults and children. WMCHealth is at the forefront of many cutting-edge treatments for blood cancers, including the latest innovations in stem cell and bone marrow transplants. WMCHealth also continuously runs clinical trials that benefit cancer patients and lead in the discovery of life-saving care.
Diagnosing Blood Cancers
When a doctor suspects a blood cancer, they will typically start with a series of blood tests. These may include a complete blood count (CBC) to check for levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, and blood smears to examine the cell.
Other tests may include:
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: During this procedure, a small sample of bone marrow and bone is removed and examined for cancer cells. This biopsy helps determine the stage and type of the cancer and guides treatment decisions.
- Imaging: Doctors may perform computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, or positron emission tomography (PET) scans to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
- Genetic Testing: Mutations in specific genes can help doctors predict how a cancer will behave, which can be crucial in selecting the best treatment options for a patient.
Treatment for Blood Cancers
The treatment for blood cancers depends on the type and stage of the cancer. They may include:
- Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy X-rays are used to destroy cancer cells
- Biological Therapy: A treatment that harnesses the immune system to fight cancer
- Targeted Therapies: Medications that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells
- Stem Cell Transplant: Stem cells are introduced into your body to help your bone marrow recover and produce healthy blood cells