Leukemia is cancer that starts in the tissues that form blood. Usually, leukemia involves the production of abnormal white blood cells — the cells that help the body fight infection. Not all leukemias are the same. Treatment options, as well as outlooks (prognosis), vary depending on the type.
At Compass Oncology, our blood cancer specialists, called hematologists, are here to guide you and your family every step of the way. We invite you to explore these pages to learn more about the disease, including signs and symptoms, types, diagnosis, and what treatment options you have. We are here to provide support and answer any questions you have about leukemia.
What Blood Cancers Are and How They Are Treated
Nora Bucher, MD specializes in hematology and explains different types of blood cancers, their symptoms, and treatment options. Watch this video to learn more about blood cancers, how they are treated, and advancements in treatment options due to cancer research.
View Our Blog For More Information on Leukemia and Other Blood Cancers
Signs and Symptoms of Leukemia
Not everyone with leukemia experiences symptoms in the early stages, depending on the type of the disease (acute or chronic). While there are specific symptoms for each type of leukemia, there are some general signs and symptoms they have in common that you should be aware of.
Types of Leukemia
Leukemia is not one disease, but several that can be grouped based on how quickly the disease develops and gets worse. Leukemia is either chronic (which usually gets worse slowly) or acute (which usually gets worse quickly). Types of leukemia can also be grouped based on the type of white blood cell that is affected.
Leukemia Treatment Options
After a leukemia diagnosis, one of our blood cancer specialists will work with you and our other cancer care staff to develop an individualized treatment plan that’s best for you based on your type of leukemia, your overall health, and various other factors. Your treatment plan will depend on the type of leukemia and how severe it is.
Support Services for Leukemia Cancer Patients
We understand you may be feeling overwhelmed with questions and concerns about your type of leukemia and all that it means. From second opinions to our patient benefit representatives and oncology social workers, the support specialists at Compass Oncology are here to help you during every step of your cancer journey.
We also encourage you to take advantage of both our Compass Oncology cancer support groups and other local cancer support groups in and around Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA.
Leukemia Survivorship Resources
Our cancer care team has put together additional resources for leukemia survivors to help patients with their journey after cancer treatment. There are many organizations that can help patients with financial assistance and support for managing the side effects of treatment. Discover group gatherings, reading materials, and more.