Leukemia and Lymphoma are cancers that occur in the blood. There are many
types of blood cancers, and this grouping includes cancers of the blood,
bone marrow, lymphatic system (lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, tonsils,
thymus, spleen and digestive tract, and lymphoid tissue).
Symptoms of the various types of blood cancer often include frequent infections
and issues with bleeding.
If you experience the following symptoms, you should see immediate medical
care or call 911:
Uncontrolled bleeding
Severe sweating
Difficulty breathing
Pale /blue lips or fingernails
A fever greater than 101 degrees
Increased heart rate
Confusion
A loss or change in level of consciousness
Increased anxiety
If you experience the following symptoms, you should see your primary care
provider as soon as possible:
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fever
Frequent infections
Night sweats
Tiredness/fatigue
Bone pain
Enlarged lymph node
Blood Cancer Screening
Symptoms of blood cancer are often associated with other health conditions,
making blood cancer somewhat difficult to diagnose.
A blood test is performed to diagnose or screen for blood cancer. This
test will measure the amount of red blood cells, white blood cells, and
platelets in the blood. Your doctor may also look for chemicals in the
blood that show signs of malfunctioning in the liver, kidney, heart, and lungs.
Additionally, you doctor will also look for biomarkers that indicate cancer
activity in the blood.
Blood Cancer Treatment
How blood cancer is treated depends on many different factors, including
family history, current health, symptoms, and lab results. Treatment options include:
Chemotherapy
Drug therapy
Radiation therapy
Immunotherapy
Vaccine therapy
Stem cell transplant
Blood transfusion
Palliative support
Clinical trials
Your Blood Cancer Treatment Team
Understanding your diagnosis and treatment options is the first step in
fighting blood cancer. At Frederick Health, we’re committed to providing
you with a cancer treatment experience that is focused on you.
