Blood cancer affects the body's ability to produce and regulate healthy blood cells. Early detection and timely treatment can lead to better outcomes. At Gastro Surgery Surat, we provide comprehensive evaluation and blood cancer treatment in Surat. In this blog, we cover the major types of blood cancer, their causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
What Is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer, or hematologic cancer, starts in the bone marrow where blood cells are formed. It leads to abnormal growth of blood cells, which affects immune response, oxygen transport, and blood clotting.
Major Types of Blood Cancer
Leukemia
Leukemia is cancer of the white blood cells and starts in the bone marrow. It can spread quickly or progress slowly depending on the type.
Subtypes include:
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Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
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Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
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Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
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Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Lymphoma
Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which helps fight infection. It is divided into:
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Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)
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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma impacts plasma cells that produce antibodies. It typically affects bones and weakens the immune system.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of blood cancer is not always known, but several risk factors are associated with its development:
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Genetic predisposition or family history
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Exposure to chemicals like benzene
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Previous radiation or chemotherapy treatments
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Certain viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus or HIV
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Weak immune system or autoimmune conditions
Symptoms of Blood Cancer
Symptoms may vary depending on the type but commonly include:
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Unexplained weight loss
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Constant fatigue
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Frequent infections
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Bruising or bleeding easily
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Swollen lymph nodes
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Bone or joint pain
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Persistent fever or night sweats
If these symptoms are present, it's important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis.
How Is Blood Cancer Diagnosed?
At Gastro Surgery Surat, we use a combination of advanced diagnostic tools to confirm blood cancer:
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Complete blood count (CBC) and blood smear
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Bone marrow biopsy
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Imaging tests like CT, MRI, or PET scans
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Genetic and molecular testing
Treatment Options for Blood Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:
Chemotherapy
Powerful drugs are used to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
Targets and destroys cancer cells, often used in lymphoma.
Targeted Therapy
Targets specific proteins or genes involved in cancer cell growth.
Immunotherapy
Helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Stem Cell Transplant
Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells to regenerate blood cells.
Supportive Care
Manages symptoms and improves quality of life during treatment.
Why Choose Gastro Surgery Surat?
Our team combines medical expertise with compassionate care to offer the best outcomes for blood cancer patients. We create personalized blood cancer treatment plans based on each patient's condition, and our supportive care continues through recovery and beyond.