When understanding blood cancers, there’s a lot to unpack. Hematological cancers, like lymphoma and multiple myeloma, begin in the cells of your blood-producing tissues. These diseases can be complex, but we’re here to help you understand them.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into lymphoma and multiple myeloma, shedding light on the vital role of hematology in cancer care. With the correct information, we can empower ourselves and take control of our health. Let’s dive in.
Decoding Lymphoma & Multiple Myeloma
Exploring the complexities of lymphoma and multiple myeloma has been critical in advancing our understanding of cancer biology. To understand the basics about these hematological cancers, let’s see a complete overview of each of them:
Lymphoma Explained
Lymphoma is a cancer originating in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body’s immune defense. This cancer begins in the cells that protect us from infections – our immune cells.
There are two main types of lymphoma – Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. People with lymphoma often experience symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. According to Cedars-Sinai, each year, around 79,990 new cases of lymphoma are diagnosed in the US.
Deciphering Multiple Myeloma
This cancer forms in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell. The exact cause of Multiple Myeloma is unknown. Still, certain factors like age, genetic disorders, and the state of your immune system health may increase the risk.
Patients with Multiple Myeloma often suffer from bone pain, nausea, frequent infections, and fatigue. Historically, treating this cancer has been challenging, but recent medical advancements have significantly improved prognosis and treatment outcomes.
How Hematologists Help with These Conditions
Hematologists are like guardians in the realm of healthcare, particularly when it comes to managing hematological cancer treatment. They are the experts who guide you through the intricate journey of diagnosis and treatment, ensuring you receive the best possible care. Here is how they work with each condition:
Lymphoma
Hematologists employ advanced tests and scans to identify the type and stage of lymphoma. Once diagnosed, they tailor precise treatment plans, including chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy. They work closely with you to balance effectiveness and side effects to improve your quality of life.
Multiple Myeloma
For multiple myeloma, hematologists examine your blood, bone marrow, and imaging results to confirm the diagnosis and stage. Once they have all the details, they can recommend treatments like targeted therapies, stem cell transplants, or medications to keep the cancer in check.
Marching Forward: Latest Innovations in Hematology
The world of hematology-related cancer research and therapies constantly evolves, with recent advancements offering renewed hope for patients.
First, a study on the safety and efficacy of anlotinib, a novel treatment for advanced malignant tumors, has provided valuable insights into managing side effects like thrombocytopenia. This progression, made in 2023, offers a promising path forward for patients coping with advanced malignancies.
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center’s vast HSCT program has also been making waves in hematology. Their research enhances our understanding of Graft vs. Host Disease, a severe complication from stem cell transplantation. This knowledge could lead to more successful transplants and improved patient outcomes in the future.
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning how the advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is revolutionizing cancer treatment. These therapies have shown potential in treating extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC), opening new doors for patients battling this aggressive disease.
Learn More About Hematological Cancers with Wray Hospital & Clinic
Facing a hematological cancer diagnosis can be extremely difficult. At Wray Hospital & Clinic, we understand you want to be knowledgeable about this condition and its treatment options. We believe that you shouldn’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Don’t let the complex information about this type of cancer overwhelm you. Our compassionate and oncology-certified nurses (OCN) stand with you, offering hematological cancer support and resources to help you understand your condition and treatment choices.
Trust our well-equipped laboratory and infusion center for accurate detection, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition. Reach out to us today.
