Unveiling the Shadows: Exploring Lesser-Known Blood Cancers in 2023

 

While leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma are the more well-known kinds of blood cancer, there are numerous less well-known blood cancer types that equally merit consideration, according to Dr. Byreddy Poojitha, Hemato-oncologist and BMT Physician, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

September is honoured as Blood Cancer Awareness Month every year. For early identification, efficient treatment, and support for patients and their families, it is essential to raise knowledge about the many forms of blood cancer and its effects.

The prognosis for many blood cancer patients has greatly improved as a result of advancements in research and therapy, says Dr. Niti Krishna Raizada, Senior Director, Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, Fortis Hospitals, Bangalore.

While leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma are the more well-known kinds of blood cancer, there are numerous less well-known blood cancer types that equally merit consideration, according to Dr. Byreddy Poojitha, Hemato-oncologist and BMT Physician, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)

Rare blood illnesses known as MDS are characterised by insufficient production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. Anaemia, infections, and bleeding issues might result from this. Early detection and treatment of MDS are crucial since in certain circumstances it might proceed to acute leukaemia.

Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs)

The overproduction of blood cells in the bone marrow occurs in a type of blood malignancies known as MPNs. This group includes diseases including polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and myelofibrosis. Fatigue, blood clots, and an elevated risk of leukaemia are just a few of the symptoms of MPNs that can significantly affect a person's quality of life.
To educate the public about these less well-known kinds of blood cancer, organisations committed to raising awareness of the disease frequently undertake educational initiatives.

Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL)

B cells are impacted by the relatively uncommon type of leukaemia known as HCL. Its name comes from the projections that resemble hairs when cancer cells are magnified under a microscope. Despite being a cancer with a modest growth rate, HCL can be difficult to cure.

Waldenström Macroglobulinemia

The bone marrow and blood are both affected by this uncommon kind of lymphoma. It is characterised by the overproduction of the immunoglobulin M (IgM) protein, which can cause symptoms including exhaustion, bleeding, and nerve issues.

Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia (CEL)

Eosinophils, a kind of white blood cell, are the main target of CEL, a rare form of chronic myeloid leukaemia. Numerous symptoms, including as skin rashes, exhaustion, and organ damage, may result from it.