Hematologic/Blood Cancers
Caused when our bone marrow makes too many blood cells, cancers of the blood lead to anemia, frequent infections and excessive bleeding.
Common types of blood cancer, also called hematologic cancer, are leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. These three cancers form when abnormal white blood cells crowd out the healthy ones that are responsible for fighting infections. Other myeloma disorders cause too many red blood cells and excessive platelets to be produced. When this happens, we become more susceptible to abnormal blood clotting or excessive bleeding.
Although the exact cause of blood cancers are unknown, your risk increases as you get older and if you are exposed to excessive radiation or certain chemicals. You are also more vulnerable to these diseases if you are a male. See your doctor if you have fever and night sweats, pain in your stomach, or swollen lymph nodes.
Recently Answered
- Q What is multiple myeloma?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyOne type of blood cell cancer called multiple myeloma affects blood plasma cells, a type of cell involved in immunity. It causes tiny holes throughout bone that can weaken and fracture easily. As the cancerous cells become more abundant in the marrow, it... Full Answer
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- Q How is multiple myeloma treated?
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Dr. Anthony Komaroff, Internal MedicineMultiple myeloma is a disease of plasma cells, a type of bone marrow cell. These cells are very important in making immune-fighting proteins called antibodies (immunoglobulins).In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells grow uncontrollably. They make... Full Answer
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- Q Is there a cure for myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases?
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In many cases, myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases cannot be cured. While a successful bone marrow transplant can cure children with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, the median time of survival after diagnosis ranges from less than one year to... Full Answer
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- Q What is a myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease stem cell transplant?
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Myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases are characterized by abnormalities in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. Your bone marrow contains stem cells which develop into blood cells. When the stem cells in your bone marrow malfunction, you may be... Full Answer
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- Q Are there blood tests for myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases?
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While there are no specific blood tests for myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases, doctors do take samples from your peripheral circulation. A complete blood count, often abbreviated CBC, enables the doctor to determine how many platelets, red... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases daily?
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Managing myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases on a daily basis may be challenging as you may feel tired or emotionally overwhelmed. Transfusions can help you to replenish blood cells in your peripheral circulation. This can help you to feel less... Full Answer
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- Q How can I help someone with myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases?
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Caring for a loved one with a myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease can be difficult. Simply listening empathetically may be very helpful as your loved one may feel anxious or emotionally exhausted. Helping with housework and errands may also be... Full Answer
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- Q What increases my risk for myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases?
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There are several myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease subtypes and risk factors vary. Age, male gender, exposure to radiation, and past cancer treatment increase your risk for chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. A genetic condition called... Full Answer
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- Q How do growth factors treat myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases?
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People with myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases do not produce adequate blood cells. Growth factors such as erythropoietin, G-CSF, and oprelvekin may help your body to replenish depleted supplies. Erythropoietin stimulates red blood cell growth,... Full Answer
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- Q How do myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases affect the body?
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Myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disorders affect the body by interfering with the production of normal, healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. When you are unable to produce enough normal while blood cells, you are more susceptible to infections as... Full Answer
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