Understanding the Main Types of Hematologic Cancers

An Overview of Major Blood Cancers

Key Blood Cancers You Should Be Aware Of

Cancers pose a significant health threat worldwide, with nearly 38.5% of men and women receiving a diagnosis at some stage. Early detection often improves treatment success, but advanced or metastatic cancers are more challenging. Blood cancers, accounting for about 10.2% of all cancer cases, are diagnosed roughly every three minutes as leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. If not identified promptly, these diseases can become life-threatening.

Hematologic cancers disrupt blood cell formation and function, originating in the bone marrow before affecting circulation. Symptoms often appear early, including:

Persistent fatigue and weakness

Fever or chills

Night sweats

Unexpected weight loss

Joint discomfort

Reduced appetite

Headaches

Frequent infections

Nausea

Itching or skin rashes

Abdominal pain

Recognizing these signs can be crucial for early diagnosis.

Types of Blood Cancers

Blood cancers originate in the marrow, impairing the production and function of blood cells. The three primary types are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

Leukemia

This cancer affects white blood cells, leading to the rapid production of abnormal leukemia cells. Instead of fighting infections, these cells multiply uncontrollably and crowd out healthy cells, causing anemia, increased infection risk, and bleeding issues. If untreated, leukemia can spread to lymph nodes and other organs. Types include acute versus chronic and lymphocytic versus myelogenous leukemia, distinguished by speed of progression and affected cell type.

Lymphoma

Arising from lymphocytes, immune system cells in lymph nodes, spleen, and other tissues, lymphoma causes these cells to multiply abnormally. It is categorized into Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin types. Risk factors include genetic syndromes, immune deficiencies, viral infections, and family history, though causes are often unknown.

Multiple Myeloma

This form affects plasma cells that produce antibodies. When malignant, plasma cells overproduce immunoglobulin proteins, damaging organs and bones. Weakness in bones creates fractures called lytic lesions, and cancer cells may spread beyond the marrow. Common in those over 65, individuals of African descent, or with a family history, myeloma's exact causes remain uncertain. Treatments include stem cell transplants, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, especially when diagnosed early.