What To Consider When Diagnosed With A Blood Cancer

What are blood cancers, and how are they diagnosed?

Blood cancers are a large family of diseases involving various body parts, but they usually start from the blood and the bone marrow. While some blood cancers can be slow-growing and may not require any treatment initially, others can be highly aggressive and life-threatening unless urgently treated. It is, therefore, essential to identify and diagnose the specific type of blood cancer and then plan the appropriate treatment. A diagnosis can be made in a lot of cases through blood testing but might require a biopsy of the bone marrow or other tissues in the body. Several specialized genetic tests establish the exact type of blood cancer, and this information is much more helpful in planning treatment and determining prognosis rather than just the stage of cancer alone.

What’s the value of a second opinion?

There are numerous cancers in the blood cancer family, and blood cancer specialists, like myself and my colleagues, focus on one particular type of blood cancer. This allows us to keep up with the most recent advancements in the field and to provide the best possible and latest care for our patients. Additionally, we work closely with trained blood cancer pathologists, who are essential for accurately establishing the diagnosis. A second opinion from a reputable team of blood cancer specialists allows for a proper diagnosis. It ensures that you can access all the best treatments currently available.

What types of treatments are available?

Treatment for blood cancers depends on the specific type of cancer. Treatments include immunotherapy, chemotherapy, cellular therapy, and stem cell transplantation. It is crucial to use the appropriate treatment based on the specific type of blood cancer, which is why working with a group of blood cancer specialists is extremely important for any patient with blood cancer.

When do clinical trials become a part of treatment?

Clinical trials are essential for patients with blood cancers since they frequently provide the best available treatment option. Patients should ask for a clinical trial option whenever possible since it allows them the opportunity to explore new and improved treatments. New medications frequently used in patients with blood cancer as part of a clinical trial undergo extensive testing before they are made available for use in patients. The use of placebos in blood cancer clinical trials is infrequent.

Why does it matter where I receive my care?

A diverse and well-experienced medical team led by an expert blood-cancer specialist can significantly improve the quality of care for patients with blood cancer and ensure the best possible outcome. A team approach is critical since many treatments used to manage patients with blood cancers are complicated and require planning and flawless execution.