Blood cancer is a group of health conditions that affect the production and functioning of blood cells and the components of the lymphatic system. This type of cancer occurs when malignant cells in the blood or bone marrow disrupt the normal development of healthy blood cells. Understanding the triggers, diagnosis, and management options for blood cancer is essential to improve outcomes and provide appropriate care to individuals with this condition.
Types of blood cancer
Blood cancer is categorized into three main types.
Leukemia– Affecting the white blood cells (WBCs), leukemia interferes with their ability to fight infections inside the body.
Lymphoma– This form of blood cancer affects the body’s disease-fighting network – the lymphatic system. It affects the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow.
Myeloma– Myeloma affects the plasma cells – a form of white blood cell in the bone marrow. This condition can affect the immune system, red blood cell count, kidneys, and bones.
Causes
In many cases, the exact cause of blood cancer remains unknown. Experts believe that a combination of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors may contribute to the condition.
Genetic factors– Some blood cancers are linked to genetic predispositions, which means that certain gene mutations or inherited conditions can increase one’s risk of developing the condition. These genetic factors can alter the way blood cells in one’s bone marrow reproduce.
Environmental factors- Exposure to certain industrial chemicals, like benzene and certain pesticides, may increase the risk of developing blood cancer. Additionally, exposure to high-energy radiation or certain viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), can also play a role in the development of specific blood cancers.
Diagnosis
Physical examination and health history– A healthcare professional will conduct a physical examination and enquire about the patient’s health history to check for any symptoms of blood cancer.
Blood tests- Blood examinations, including complete blood count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear, are performed to evaluate the levels and appearance of different blood cells. Abnormalities in these tests may indicate the presence of blood cancer.
Bone marrow biopsy– A bone marrow biopsy involves removing a small sample of bone marrow to examine the cells for abnormalities.
Imaging tests– Imaging tests, such as CT scans, X-rays, or positron emission tomography (PET) scans, may be performed to determine the severity of the disease and identify any potential spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment options
Chemotherapy– Chemotherapy aims at destroying cancer cells or restricting their growth. It is a common treatment approach for many types of blood cancer.
Radiation therapy– Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy beams to target and destroy cancerous cells. It may be used as a standalone treatment or, at times, in combination with other therapies.
Immunotherapy– Immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to recognize and attack malignant cells. This treatment stimulates the body’s natural defenses to fight against blood cancer.
Targeted therapy- This treatment specifically targets abnormal cells that contribute to cancer growth without harming normal cells.
Stem cell transplantation- Also known as a bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplantation involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This procedure helps restore healthy blood cells and can be a curative treatment for certain blood cancers.
