Blood Cancers

An American is diagnosed with blood cancer every three minutes, making it more common than many people realize. At Cancer Care Institute, renowned oncologist and hematologist Youram Nassir, MD, offers patient-centered care for all types and stages of blood cancers. His personalized approach ensures that patients in the Los Angeles, California, area get the most effective treatments based on their unique needs. Call the office in the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood or book an appointment online today. 

What are blood cancers?

Blood cancers encompass a diverse group of malignancies that disrupt the normal production, quantity, and function of the body’s blood cells. These cancers arise when abnormal cells proliferate uncontrollably, interfering with the essential functions of healthy blood cells.

What are the types of blood cancers?

There are over 100 distinct types of blood cancers, but they are primarily classified into three main categories:

Leukemia

Leukemia is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal white blood cells, which are essential components of the immune system responsible for combating infections. In leukemia, the body produces an overabundance of dysfunctional white blood cells, impeding the capacity of healthy cells to fight infections. Furthermore, these aberrant cells hinder the bone marrow’s ability to produce adequate red blood cells and platelets, disrupting normal blood function.

Lymphoma

Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the immune system responsible for generating lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell that combats infection) and managing fluid levels in the body. Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes multiply uncontrollably, leading to swollen lymph nodes. The two primary subtypes are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, differentiated by the specific types of lymphocytes involved.

Myeloma

Myeloma targets plasma cells, which are specialized blood cells responsible for producing antibodies to combat infections and diseases. This form of blood cancer disrupts the antibody production process, rendering the body more susceptible to infections and various diseases.

Among these three categories, lymphoma is the most prevalent, accounting for approximately half of all blood cancer cases in the United States in recent years.

How are blood cancers treated?

While all blood cancers share the characteristic of involving aberrant blood cells, each type presents unique features, and every patient’s condition is distinct. At Cancer Care Institute, Dr. Nassir offers concierge oncology services that focus on developing highly individualized treatment plans for each patient.

Traditional therapies, including radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, continue to be fundamental in cancer treatment. However, advancements in molecular testing have enabled oncologists to better classify blood cancers and tailor treatments to the specific genetic mutations and proteins driving the malignancy. This approach allows for the use of highly customized treatment regimens that target the unique aspects of each patient’s cancer.

Dr. Nassir possesses a profound understanding of various cancers, including blood malignancies. His expertise, combined with a collaborative approach with other specialists, allows him to formulate treatment strategies that are finely attuned to the individual needs and circumstances of each patient.

Cancer Care Institute is committed to providing patients with access to the most effective treatment strategies, including participation in clinical trials and the latest advancements in therapeutic modalities. The practice also collaborates with insurance providers to help secure the necessary funding for optimal treatment options.

Dr. Nassir works closely with each patient to understand their unique needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized approach to cancer treatment. To schedule an appointment at Cancer Care Institute, call the office or request one online today.