Blood cancers, also known as hematologic cancers, affect the microscopic components of blood or the bone marrow where these cells are produced. These conditions cannot be identified visually.
Types of Blood Cancers
Blood cancers begin when the normal production and function of blood cells are disrupted, usually in the bone marrow. These conditions involve the uncontrolled growth of abnormal blood cells, which interfere with the functions of healthy cells. The three primary categories of blood cancers are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, each affecting different types of blood cells or systems.
Leukemia begins in the blood and bone marrow, producing abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells can crowd out healthy blood cells, hindering the body’s ability to fight infections and perform other essential functions. Lymphoma develops in the lymphatic system, part of the immune system. This cancer targets lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, often forming tumors in lymph nodes or other lymphatic tissues. Myeloma affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Abnormal plasma cells accumulate, leading to complications such as bone damage, anemia, and kidney problems.
Observable Symptoms
Many blood cancer symptoms are non-specific, but their persistence or severity warrants medical evaluation. Persistent fatigue and unexplained weight loss are common general indicators. Individuals might also experience fevers, chills, and night sweats.
Bleeding and bruising abnormalities can result from low platelet counts, which impair blood clotting. This can lead to easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in stool. Frequent infections may also occur because abnormal white blood cells compromise the immune system. Some individuals may develop unexplained rashes or itchy skin.
Other signs include lumps or swellings, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin, caused by enlarged lymph nodes. These are typically painless. Bone pain, which can affect major bones like the back, ribs, or hips, is another symptom, especially with myeloma. An enlarged spleen or liver can cause discomfort or pain in the abdomen, sometimes leading to a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts.
Diagnostic Process
Medical professionals diagnose blood cancers using a series of tests, beginning with a physical examination for swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen. A complete blood count (CBC) is often the initial blood test, measuring red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormal CBC levels can indicate anemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells), or thrombocytopenia (low platelets), potentially pointing to blood cancers or other disorders.
If initial blood tests suggest a problem, further specialized procedures are performed. A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration involve removing a small bone marrow sample, usually from the hip bone, to examine for abnormal cells and assess marrow health. This provides information about the type and extent of cancer. Flow cytometry analyzes cells from blood or bone marrow samples by passing them through a laser beam. This method helps identify and characterize cancer cells based on their physical and chemical properties, aiding in the diagnosis and classification of blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.
Genetic testing may also be conducted on cancer cells to identify specific changes in genes and chromosomes. This helps classify the exact type of blood cancer and guide treatment decisions. Imaging scans, such as CT (computed tomography), PET (positron emission tomography), and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), determine if cancer has spread to other organs or identify enlarged lymph nodes. CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional views, while PET scans can highlight areas where cancer cells are active. MRI offers detailed pictures of internal organs and bones, sometimes detecting bone changes earlier than X-rays.
Seeking Medical Advice
If persistent, unexplained, or worsening symptoms are present, consulting a healthcare professional is important. Symptoms like ongoing fatigue, unusual bruising or bleeding, recurrent infections, or unexplained lumps warrant medical evaluation. Early detection of blood cancers can improve treatment outcomes and increase survival rates.
Recognizing symptoms early allows for quicker implementation of treatment plans, potentially leading to less aggressive therapies and fewer side effects. This article serves as an informational resource and does not replace professional medical advice. Self-diagnosis based solely on symptoms is not recommended; a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance.