Hematological malignancy

Hematological malignancy refers to a group of cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. These malignancies are categorized into three main groups: leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

Leukemia[edit | edit source]

Leukemia is a type of cancer that starts in the blood-forming tissues, such as the bone marrow. It leads to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which are not fully developed and are called blasts or leukemia cells. These cells can't carry out their normal functions, and they can build up in the body and cause problems. Leukemia is further classified into four main types: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML).

Lymphoma[edit | edit source]

Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the cells of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the body's immune system and helps fight infections and diseases. Lymphomas are divided into two categories: Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Hodgkin's lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, while non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a term used for a diverse group of blood cancers that share characteristics but are distinct in their cellular composition and clinical behavior.

Myeloma[edit | edit source]

Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a cancer of plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies to help fight infections. In myeloma, these cells become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, leading to the production of a type of antibody called a paraprotein, which can cause complications.

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of hematological malignancies often involves blood tests, bone marrow tests, and lymph node biopsies. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplant. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and their personal preferences.