Blood cancers
Providing trusted blood cancer testing
and insights for informed treatment decisions.
and insights for informed treatment decisions.
Understanding blood cancers
Blood cancer develops when abnormal blood cells grow uncontrollably. These cancers usually start in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced, or in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune defense against infections.
Types of blood cancers
- LeukemiaLeukemia begins in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside bones where blood is made. It causes the body to produce large numbers of abnormal white blood cells, which crowd out healthy blood cells and make it harder to fight infections.LymphomaLymphoma starts in the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. It happens when lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) grow and multiply abnormally, affecting the body’s ability to fight infections.Multiple myelomaMultiple myeloma develops in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Healthy plasma cells make antibodies to fight infection, but in multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells build up in the bone marrow and interfere with normal blood production.Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)MDS refers to a group of disorders where the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells. Instead, it produces immature or faulty cells, which can lead to anemia, infections, or easy bleeding and bruising.Common symptoms*
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Unexplained weight loss - Easy bruising or bleeding without a clear cause
- Shortness of breath or feeling unusually breathless
- Drenching night sweats
- Frequent, severe, or recurring infections
- Skin changes, such as a rash or persistent itching
- Pain in the bones, joints, or abdomen
- Ongoing fatigue or tiredness that does not improve with rest
- Pale appearance, often due to low red blood cell counts
- Swelling or lumps, especially in the lymph nodes, neck, armpits, or groin
Test menu options for blood cancer
Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH)Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH)Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH)Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH)Single Gene Test, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)Single Gene Test, Acute Myeloid Leukemia(AML)Single Gene TestLearn more about our testing optionsUseful guidesExplore resources for valuable insights into pathology and molecular testing. Access our collection of articles, case studies, and educational materials to enhance your understanding of our diagnostic solutions.FAQ
Anyone can develop blood cancer, men, women, and children, though certain types are more common at different ages.Risk factors include age, smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, prior cancer treatments, family history, autoimmune conditions, and some genetic disorders.Blood cancers can’t be completely prevented. Living a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking, may help lower your risk.Doctors may use blood tests, bone marrow tests, imaging scans, physical exams, or sometimes lymph node removal to confirm a diagnosis.Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, or surgery – depending on the cancer.Some people continue working, but it depends on the treatment, side effects, and your overall health.Yes, blood cancers can return after remission.Support is available through local and online groups, counseling, nonprofit cancer organizations, and your personal support network.Don’t wait, contact your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms.*Note: Experiencing these symptoms does not always mean cancer. If you notice any of them, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation.References
- Blood Cancer Symptoms and Diagnosis https://hillman.upmc.com/cancer-care/blood/symptoms-diagnosis
- Blood Cancers https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/blood-cancers
- Blood Cancer https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22883-blood-cancer
- About blood cancer https://bloodcancer.org.uk/understanding-blood-cancer/
- Blood Cancer https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/blood-cancer.html
- Blood Cancers: Understanding Types, Symptoms, and Advances in Treatment https://cinj.org/blood-cancers-understanding-types-symptoms-and-advances-treatment
- Blood Cancers https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/blood-cancers