Signs and Symptoms
We are all unique and that includes the way our bodies may handle or show signs and symptoms of cancer. You may not show any signs of blood and bone marrow cancers or experience any symptoms. If you do, they may include:
- Anemia
- Bone problems, such as breaks from minor stress/injury or pain
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Fever
- High calcium levels
- Hyper viscosity (blood too thick)
- Infection
- Kidney problems
- Low blood counts
- Muscle weakness or pain
- Night sweats
- Numbness
- Weight loss
Diagnosis
If your doctor suspects you have a blood or bone marrow cancer, these diagnostic tests may help confirm or rule out the diagnosis:
- Biopsy (examination of a tissue sample)
- Blood tests
- Bone marrow aspiration (taking a bone marrow sample in liquid form)
- CT or bone scans, MRIs or x-rays
- Chromosome and gene testing
- Urine tests
Treatment
We can treat blood and platelet disorders with nonsurgical therapies, such as:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Bone marrow transplant
If you need a bone marrow transplant, we partner with hospitals in our region, so your team includes both your physician and a transplant specialist.
You may also require treatment to help ease or alleviate your symptoms, such as:
- Antibiotics to treat infection
- Biophosponate medication to strengthen your bones
- Blood transfusion for anemia
- Erythropoeitin, which is a hormone to help increase red blood cell production
- Kidney dialysis for kidney damage or failure
- Pain medication
- Surgery for bone injuries or to ease pressure on nerves
You and your family are important members of your care team, and there is no one-size-fits all course of treatment. Your doctors will discuss your options and work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your condition.
Make an Appointment
We’re here to help. If you suspect you may have a blood or bone marrow cancer, or you have been recently diagnosed, call 443-481-5800 to schedule a consultation.