Welcome to Fortis Cancer Institute, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore.

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Haemato Oncology

About the Department

New blood cells are generally formed in the bone marrow. Blood cancer is a collective term for the malignancies of the blood-forming system or the bone marrow. The natural process of blood cell development is hindered due to the formation of immature and dysfunctional blood cells which enter the bloodstream and multiply uncontrollably. These dysfunctional cells are called cancer cells who can no longer carry out the normal cell functions. They prevent the production as well as functions of normal blood cells.

At Fortis, Bannerghatta, our Department of Hematology Oncology or Blood Cancer is at the forefront in treating various types of blood cancers. Our state-of-the-art infrastructure and diagnostic facilities equip us to treat complex cases of blood cancer and help deliver exceptional care for every stage of the disease. Our highly skilled experts work in collaboration with other specialties to develop an individualized plan for your specific type of blood cancer. 

We follow a comprehensive approach to providing the latest diagnosis, treatment and advanced therapies for every patient. We offer a variety of treatment options that the patients can choose from, for even the most complex, aggressive type of blood cancer. We are also equipped to treat a relapsing or recurring type of cancer for people who have had series of unsuccessful treatments elsewhere.

Our goal has always been to providing quality & enhanced care. Our commitment to save & enrich lives is supported with advanced healthcare with the main focus on clinical excellence and distinctive patient care.

Areas of Care

Handling various types of blood cancer are a proof of our capabilities.

Leukemia

It is a type of blood cancer in which abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow rapidly increase in number and destroy the normal blood cells, leaving a person more prone to infection. The treatment for leukemia depends upon the type of blood cell affected and whether it is acute or chronic. Acute leukemia forms rapidly and becomes severe quickly. Chronic leukemia grows very slowly and takes a long time to advance.

Sub-types of Leukemia

The four most common types of leukemia are:

  • Acute lymphocytic leukemia
  • Acute myeloid leukemia
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
  • Chronic myeloid leukemia

Lymphoma

It often begins in the lymph node. In this disease, the abnormal white blood cells called lymphocytes over-multiply in the lymphatic system. Since lymph tissue is present in many organs and structures, lymphoma can arise from any location of the body.
 
Types of Lymphoma

The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin. People of any age can get either type, but Hodgkin’s is usually seen in the younger age group between 15 and 35, whereas non-Hodgkin’s is seen mainly in people over 60 years of age.

  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)

This is seen in especially men over women who are aged more than 60 years of age. The dysfunctional and immature blood cells in the bone marrow do not mature into healthy blood cells. These dysfunctional cells start occupying space in the bone marrow, hindering the growth of natural healthy blood cells like red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This condition is called Myelodysplastic syndrome.

  • Myeloproliferative Disorder (MPD)

In this disorder, an excess growth of particularly one type of dysfunctional blood cells is seen in the bone marrow over the other. Sometimes, it can involve two or more blood cell types too.

  • Multiple Myeloma

It is the third most common type of plasma cell cancer. Plasma cells are the ones that produce antibodies to fight diseases and infections.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Blood Cancer Symptoms and Signs

Every type of blood cancer is different from each other but has some common symptoms and signs. The symptoms only appear in the later stages of the disease and are sometimes mistaken to be a severe cold or flu.

Certain common blood cancer symptoms are as follows:

  • Coughing or chest pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Frequent infections
  • Itchy skin or rash
  • Loss of appetite or nausea
  • Night sweats
  • Persistent weakness and fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swollen, painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
Blood Cancer Diagnosis

Because each type of blood cancer is unique, the diagnostic process is complex. Depending upon the types of cells involved, the way cancer spreads and its genetic associations with certain types of blood cancer, the doctor tries to detect the exact type of blood cancer that you may have.

A normal blood sample detects the levels of the following:

  • Red blood cells
  • White blood cells
  • Platelets
  • Hemoglobin – the protein that carries oxygen to your tissues
  • Hematocrit – a measure of red blood cells in relation to the amount of plasma
  • An abnormal count of any of these can hint at the presence of blood cancer. Other tests to diagnose blood cancers may include:
  • Bone marrow exam
  • Diagnostic imaging tests — CT scan, PET scan, and x-ray
  • Physical exam
  • Surgical lymph node removal (for examination)
Treatment Options

The treatment depends on many factors, depending on the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the overall health. At Fortis, we offer the latest therapies for blood cancer. Our surgical and medical oncologists work with you and your loved ones to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment options for blood cancer depend on the:

  • The type and stage of cancer.
  • The spread of disease.
  • Your basic health.

Blood cancer treatments may include:

  • Stem cell (bone marrow) transplantation
  • Immunotherapy
  • Chemotherapy

No matter the type of blood cancer, we at Fortis are prepared to provide consistent, personal care at every stage of your disease.

Our Team that cares

We have distinguished interdisciplinary teams of specialists who are fully committed to working against blood cancer. They ensure to provide exceptional attention at every step of your treatment by providing warm and compassionate care in a family-centered environment. Our team of experts includes hematologists, oncologists, pathologists, physician assistants, trained nurses and support staff.
 

LEADING ONCOLOGISTS & MULTI-SPECIALISTS IN BANGALORE