Blood cancer

Our medical experts use leading-edge technology and advanced diagnostics to determine the best treatment for you. Some of these diagnostic tests include:

• Bone marrow biopsies
• Imaging exams
• Laboratory testing

However, the best way to stay on top of your health if you are at risk is through regular screenings. If our specialists detect blood cancer early, there are better treatment options and a greater chance of recovery.

Common symptoms of blood cancer

Symptoms aren't always common and can be similar to that of a common cold, so they often get dismissed. You may want to talk to a doctor about getting tested if you are experiencing:

• Easy bruising
• Excessive bleeding
• Excessive coughing or chest pain
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Frequent infections
• Itchy skin or rash
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Night sweats
• Persistent weakness and fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen ankles

Our hematologic-oncologists work hard to treat cancer and blood disorders as quickly as possible. For complex cancers and when treatments are not working, cellular therapy is available through our Sarah Cannon Cancer Network Transplant and Cellular Therapy Network at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy — a treatment that specialists use to stop the multiplication and reproduction of cancer cells — is often used to treat leukemia. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously or through cerebrospinal fluid.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses strong beams of energy to shrink or eliminate cancer cells. The goal of these radioactive particles is to kill the cancer and stop the spread within your body while protecting the surrounding healthy tissue. Radiation is often used alongside chemotherapy, but the method of radiation will depend on your specific needs.

Targeted therapy

This therapy targets proteins that have control over how cells grow and spread. Targeted therapy mostly comes in the form of small-molecule drugs or monoclonal antibodies. It does not target normal cells and is different than standard chemotherapy, which can possibly damage normal, healthy cells.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy stimulates your own immune system to make cells that can fight and destroy cancer cells. It has been approved for many types of cancer, including blood cancer. The type of immunotherapy you receive depends on what stage of cancer you have.

Stem cell or bone marrow transplant

A stem cell or bone marrow transplant occurs when your medical expert takes healthy stem cells from one part of your body (autologous transplant) or your donor's (allogenic transplant). Doctors then put these stem cells into your bloodstream. The goal of this procedure is to boost the growth of healthy cells in your bone marrow.