Blood Cancer – Symptoms, Types, Causes, and Treatment

"

Introduction  

Blood cancer affects the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system. It disrupts how cells grow and function, weakening immunity, oxygen flow, and clotting. Early detection improves treatment outcomes significantly. 

What is Blood Cancer? 

Blood cancer is a group of diseases where abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably in the blood or marrow. These cancerous cells crowd out healthy ones, affecting red cells, white cells, and platelets, leading to fatigue, infections, bleeding, and other systemic problems. 

Early Symptoms of Blood Cancer 

Symptoms often appear subtly and are easy to overlook. Persistent fatigue, frequent infections, or bruising may seem mild but signal something serious. Early awareness helps in timely diagnosis and better treatment response for all types of blood cancer. 

Fatigue and Weakness  

Fatigue is one of the earliest symptoms of blood cancer. It’s not regular tiredness; this exhaustion persists despite rest. It happens when the body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells to carry oxygen, leaving people drained, dizzy, and struggling with everyday tasks. 

Frequent Infections  

A low white blood cell count weakens the immune system. People with blood cancer often experience recurring infections, slow recovery, or frequent fevers. Even minor colds or wounds can become severe.  

This is because the body struggles to fight off germs and heal properly without enough healthy immune cells. 

Easy Bruising or Bleeding 

Unusual bleeding or bruising can indicate low platelet levels. People may notice nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or heavy periods.  

Bruises may appear without injury. These signs result from the blood losing its normal ability to clot due to cancer affecting platelet production. 

Fever and Night Sweats  

Unexplained fever is a common sign of blood cancer. It may come and go without infection. Night sweats can be intense, soaking through clothes or sheets.  

These symptoms are the body’s response to abnormal immune activity or inflammation caused by cancerous cells disrupting normal blood and marrow functions. 

Swollen Lymph Nodes  

Lymph nodes may swell in the neck, armpits, or groin. These swellings are usually painless and firm. They signal that abnormal white blood cells are collecting in lymphatic tissues.  

While not always cancer, persistent swelling without infection should be checked to rule out blood cancers like lymphoma or leukaemia. 

Types of Blood Cancer 

Blood cancer includes several types, each affecting different blood components. The main categories are leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Each type behaves differently, requiring unique diagnostic and treatment approaches based on cell origin and disease progression. 

Leukaemia  

Leukaemia is cancer of the blood and bone marrow, where abnormal white blood cells grow uncontrollably. It can be acute (rapid) or chronic (slow). These faulty cells crowd out healthy ones, affecting immunity and oxygen transport.  

Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, frequent infections, and bruising. It’s diagnosed through blood tests and often treated with chemotherapy or stem cell transplant. 

Lymphoma  

Lymphoma begins in the lymphatic system, which helps the body fight infections. It’s divided into two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both involve abnormal lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell).  

Common signs include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. Treatment usually involves chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy depending on the subtype and stage. 

Myeloma  

Also called multiple myeloma, this cancer affects plasma cells, white blood cells that produce antibodies. Abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, reducing normal blood cell production.  

It can cause bone pain, frequent infections, anaemia, and kidney issues. Diagnosis often includes blood tests, urine analysis, and imaging. Treatment may involve chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplant. 

Stages of Blood Cancer  

Unlike solid tumours, blood cancers don’t follow TNM staging. Instead, they’re staged based on cell type, disease spread, and lab values like blood counts. Staging helps guide treatment and prognosis. 

Acute vs Chronic Blood Cancer  

Acute blood cancers develop rapidly, with symptoms appearing suddenly and worsening quickly. They require immediate treatment. Chronic types progress slowly and may be asymptomatic for years.  

Acute cancers affect immature cells, while chronic forms involve mature ones. Recognising the difference is vital, as it impacts treatment urgency, approach, and overall outlook for individuals living with these conditions. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Blood Cancer  

Blood cancer can arise from genetic mutations, environmental toxins, certain infections, or family history. While not always preventable, understanding these factors helps with early detection and risk management. 

Genetic Mutations 

Mutations in specific genes, such as BRCA or those causing chromosomal changes, can increase blood cancer risk. These alterations disrupt normal cell growth, leading to uncontrolled division of abnormal blood cells, a hallmark of cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma. 

Radiation & Chemical Exposure 

Exposure to high levels of radiation, pesticides, or industrial chemicals like benzene increases risk. These substances can damage DNA in blood-forming cells, triggering cancerous changes. Occupations involving prolonged chemical exposure may carry higher risk over time. 

Viral Infections 

Certain viruses like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Human T-cell leukaemia virus (HTLV), and HIV have been linked to blood cancers. These viruses can alter immune function or directly affect blood cells, contributing to diseases like lymphoma or leukaemia in vulnerable individuals. 

Family History 

Having a first-degree relative with blood cancer may raise your risk. Inherited genetic factors or shared environmental exposures could play a role. While not all familial cases are hereditary, they may warrant earlier screening and more vigilant monitoring for symptoms. 

How Blood Cancer is Diagnosed  

Diagnosis involves blood work, bone marrow analysis, and imaging. These tests confirm the presence of abnormal cells, determine the type and stage of blood cancer, and help plan personalised treatment. 

Blood Tests (CBC, Smear) 

A complete blood count (CBC) and peripheral smear help detect abnormal white blood cells, anaemia, or low platelets. These tests provide the first clue and guide further evaluation for conditions like leukaemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. 

Bone Marrow Biopsy 

A bone marrow biopsy removes a small sample of bone marrow for analysis. It confirms the presence of cancerous cells, identifies the specific type of blood cancer, and helps assess disease severity or stage to guide treatment choices. 

Imaging Tests (CT, PET) 

CT and PET scans help check for swollen lymph nodes, spleen enlargement, or organ involvement. These tests are crucial in staging lymphoma and assessing treatment response in various blood cancers, especially when symptoms extend beyond the bone marrow. 

Treatment Options for Blood Cancer 

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health. Options include chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant, and newer therapies like targeted or immunotherapy. Early intervention improves outcomes and long-term survival in many cases. 

Chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy uses strong drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. It’s a common first-line treatment for most blood cancers. It may be given in cycles, sometimes combined with other therapies, based on cancer type and progression. 

Radiation Therapy 

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It’s mainly used for localised lymphomas, especially when tumours are confined. It may also support other treatments or relieve symptoms like pain or pressure in specific areas. 

Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant 

This treatment replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It’s often used after high-dose chemotherapy. Transplants can be autologous (self-donated) or allogeneic (from a donor). It offers a potential cure for certain leukaemias and advanced blood cancers. 

Targeted/Immunotherapy 

Targeted therapy blocks specific molecules driving cancer growth, while immunotherapy helps the immune system fight cancer. These options offer fewer side effects than chemotherapy and are especially helpful for relapsed or treatment-resistant blood cancers like certain leukaemias and lymphomas. 

Prognosis and Survival Rates 

Outcomes depend on cancer type, stage, age, and treatment response. Acute leukaemias may progress rapidly but can be curable with early treatment. Chronic types progress slowly.  

Advances in therapies have improved survival, especially when diagnosed early and managed by specialists. 

Living with Blood Cancer 

Living with blood cancer involves more than treatment. Managing lifestyle, nutrition, mental health, and follow-up care is essential. Support from healthcare teams and caregivers helps individuals adapt, heal, and maintain quality of life through treatment and recovery. 

Diet and Nutrition 

A nutritious diet supports the immune system and energy levels. Include lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated and avoid raw or undercooked foods during treatment to reduce infection risk. Always follow a diet plan guided by your doctor. 

Coping with Side Effects 

Side effects like fatigue, nausea, infections, or hair loss are common. Medications, rest, hydration, and support groups can help manage them. Report new symptoms promptly. Emotional health is equally important, consider counselling or therapy to navigate mental stress during treatment. 

When to See a Doctor  

See a doctor if you notice persistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, or night sweats. Sudden weight loss, bone pain, or recurring fevers also require attention.  

Early medical evaluation can help detect serious issues like blood cancer before they progress. Don’t delay seeking help. 

Conclusion 

Blood cancer can be serious but is often treatable with early diagnosis and proper care. Awareness of symptoms, timely testing, and expert support are crucial. If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek medical advice, early action can save lives. 

How Can Cadabam's Diagnostics Help You? 

At Cadabam’s Diagnostics, we offer expert-led blood testing, imaging, and cancer screening services. With advanced technology and a compassionate team, we help detect blood cancers early and guide you toward the right care, so you never face illness alone. 

"