Hematologic Malignancies Overview, Types, Diagnosis, and Management
Introduction
Introduction • Hematologic malignanc ies are cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. • They include leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. • These malignancies are among the most common cancers worldwide. • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better prognosis.
Types of Hematologic Malignancies
Leukemia Definition: • Malignancy of blood-forming tissues, primarily bone marrow. Epidemiology: • Most common childhood cancer, but also occurs in adults. Diagnosis: • CBC, bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetics. Management: • Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplant.
Lymphoma Definition: • Malignancy of lymphocytes in lymph nodes or extranodal tissues. Epidemiology: • Includes Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Diagnosis: • Lymph node biopsy, imaging, immunohistochemistry. Management: • Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy.
Multiple Myeloma Definition: • Malignancy of plasma cells producing monoclonal immunoglobulins. Epidemiology: • More common in older adults, incidence increases with age. Diagnosis: • Serum protein electrophoresis, bone marrow biopsy, imaging. Management: • Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, autologous stem cell transplant.
Conclusion
Conclusion • Hematologic malignancies include leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. • Diagnosis relies on hematologic tests, biopsies, and imaging. • Advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy improve survival. • Early detection and multidisciplinary management are key.