What Conditions are Treated in Hematology at New England Cancer Specialists?

At New England Cancer Specialists, our hematology services focus on diagnosing and treating a wide range of blood disorders and hematologic cancers. Our expert team provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs. Here are some of the primary conditions we treat:

What is Anemia?

Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness. Types of anemia we treat include:

• Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Caused by a lack of iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production.
• Pernicious Anemia: A result of vitamin B12 deficiency due to poor absorption.
• Hemolytic Anemia: Caused by the premature destruction of red blood cells.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Anemia?

Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats.
Treatments: Iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, medications to suppress the immune system, and, in severe cases, blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants.

What is Leukemia?

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. Types include:

• Acute Leukemia: Rapidly progressing and requires immediate treatment.
• Chronic Leukemia: Develops more slowly and can be monitored before starting treatment.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Leukemia?

Symptoms: Frequent infections, fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow. Types include:

• Hodgkin Lymphoma: Characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A diverse group of blood cancers that includes various subtypes.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Lymphoma?

Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, night sweats, fever, and weight loss.
Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplant.

What is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to bone pain, fractures, and anemia.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Multiple Myeloma?

Symptoms: Bone pain, frequent infections, anemia, kidney dysfunction, and high calcium levels.
Treatments: Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant.

What are Bleeding Disorders?

Bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and von Willebrand disease affect the blood’s ability to clot properly.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Bleeding Disorders?

Symptoms: Excessive bleeding, easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, and prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgery.
Treatments: Replacement therapy, desmopressin (for von Willebrand disease), and antifibrinolytic medications.

What are Clotting Disorders?

Clotting disorders, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), involve abnormal blood clot formation.

What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Clotting Disorders?

Symptoms: Swelling, pain, and redness in the affected area (DVT); shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heartbeat (PE).
Treatments: Anticoagulant medications, thrombolytic therapy, and compression stockings.

What are the Common Treatment Types in Hematology?

Our hematology treatments include:

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells by interfering with their growth and division.

What is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells, often used in combination with other treatments.

What is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy boosts the immune system to fight cancer more effectively, using substances made by the body or in a laboratory.

What is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted therapy involves drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms, minimizing damage to normal cells.

What is a Bone Marrow Transplant?

A bone marrow transplant replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells, used to treat various blood cancers and disorders.

What are Blood Transfusions?

Blood transfusions replenish blood components like red cells, white cells, or platelets, essential for patients with severe anemia or bleeding disorders.

What is Our Approach at New England Cancer Specialists?

At New England Cancer Specialists, we employ a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring patients receive personalized treatment plans. Our affiliation with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute enables access to the latest therapies and clinical trials, providing our patients with cutting-edge care and the best possible outcomes.