Dr. Shinto Francis Thekkudan, MD, DM, Fellowship in Bone Marrow Transplantation (RGCI, Delhi) IACA Fellowship in Stem Cell Transplantation (MD Anderson Cancer Centre, Houston, USA) ASH VTP Scholarship in SCT (University Hospital Seidman Cancer Centre, Cleveland, USA) Consultant & Chief, Dept. of Clinical Haemotology, Haemato Oncology & BMT Baby Memorial Hospital, Calicut, Kerala - 673004
Blood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer or hematological malignancy, is a type of cancer that affects the production and function of blood cells. It includes a variety of different cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, among others. Treatment options for blood cancer vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the individual patient's health and preferences. In this article, we will discuss the various treatment options for blood cancer.
1. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is commonly used in the treatment of blood cancer. Chemotherapy drugs are typically administered intravenously or orally, and they circulate throughout the body to attack cancer cells. Some common chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of blood cancer include methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine.
Chemotherapy is often given in cycles, with a period of treatment followed by a period of rest to allow the body to recover. The duration and number of cycles of chemotherapy depend on the type and stage of the cancer. Chemotherapy can have side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of infection.
2. Radiation therapy