Chemotherapy for Blood Cancers
Chemotherapy for blood cancers uses anti-cancer medicines to destroy or control abnormal blood cells. It may be recommended for conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, depending on the type, stage, genetic characteristics, overall health, and treatment goals.
How Chemotherapy Works
Chemotherapy medicines may be given through an intravenous infusion, by mouth, or through other routes in selected cases. Treatment is often planned in cycles, allowing time between treatments for the body to recover. Depending on the blood cancer, chemotherapy may be used alone or alongside targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or stem cell transplantation.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before starting treatment, the medical team evaluates the diagnosis, blood counts, organ function, and overall health to develop an individualized treatment plan. Regular blood tests help monitor response to therapy and identify changes that may require treatment adjustments.
Possible Side Effects
Chemotherapy side effects vary according to the medicines, dosage, and treatment schedule. Common effects may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, appetite changes, hair loss, mouth sores, and changes in blood cell counts. Low white blood cell counts can increase infection risk, while low platelets or red blood cells may contribute to bleeding or anemia.