Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are examples of blood cancers (also known as hematologic cancers, or hematologic malignancies). They account for one out of every 10 new cancer diagnoses in the U.S. Most blood cancers are highly treatable and potentially curable. The key to the best outcome is to work with physicians who have specific expertise in these diseases.
Our Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Program includes a team of hematologists and medical oncologists who are internationally recognized leaders in the care of leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related cancers.
CAR T-Cell Therapy for Lymphoma, Leukemia and Myeloma
CAR T-cell therapy is a type of cancer immunotherapy that genetically modifies T cells to fight cancer.
- A T cell is a key disease fighter in the immune system.
- CAR, or chimeric antigen receptor, is a specific receptor that is added to a T cell. Adding the CAR gives the cell the ability to find and eliminate specific cancer cells.
- CAR T-cell therapy: T cells and CAR combine to help find and fight specific cells, such as antigens on the surface of cancer cells.
It works within the body to find a match on these specific cells to attack a tumor. Because CAR T-cell therapies use an individual’s cells to create more powerful, cancer-fighting T cells, each therapy is personalized.
Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Diagnosis
Blood cancers (also known as hematologic malignancies are cancers of the blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes. The majority of blood cancers have no known cause, and they are only rarely inherited. They range from slowly progressing chronic conditions to aggressive malignancies. Careful diagnosis and individualized treatment are extremely important for the management of these cancers.
Blood cancers are diagnosed using a variety of tests. Blood tests include a complete blood count (CBC) and other laboratory assessments. Many patients require a biopsy of bone marrow or lymph nodes or a bone marrow aspiration. Imaging studies (X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound) to evaluate cancer spread are frequently required. Genetic testing to identify the chromosomal abnormalities in cancer cells is often critical to an accurate diagnosis.
Blood Cancer Experts
Scientific knowledge of leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other blood cancers is vast and growing daily. The physicians in the Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Program focus only on blood cancers. They hold leadership positions in national and international blood cancer research organizations and government scientific bodies.
Specialization and research leadership allow our physicians to stay completely up to date on the latest discoveries and offer patients innovative treatment options. Find out more about our exceptional staff.
Experience With Very Rare Blood Cancers
Many blood cancers are extremely rare. Some are diagnosed in only a few hundred people nationwide every year. For patients with these uncommon blood cancers, it is important to work with highly specialized physicians. Physicians in the Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Program care for many patients with rare malignancies. They are experienced in providing individualized therapies that lead to the best outcomes.
World Leaders in Blood and Marrow Transplant
Physicians at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin are known worldwide for their leadership in blood and marrow transplantation (BMT). This therapy uses adult blood or bone marrow stem cells to provide advanced treatment for leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other blood cancers.
The Blood and Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program at the Clinical Cancer Center at Froedtert Hospital was one of the first BMT programs in the U.S. It is the largest transplant program of its kind in Wisconsin. The Clinical Cancer Center is also the home of the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR), the worldwide registry for BMT data.
Most Advanced Diagnostics
A careful diagnosis is extremely important for the treatment of blood cancers. The Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Program includes specialized hematopathologists who are internationally recognized experts in diagnosing blood cancers. The program is also a regional resource for flow cytometry, an advanced technology used to zero in on accurate blood cancer diagnoses.
We also offer second opinions to provide patients with the reassurance that a leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma cancer diagnosis is accurate. Learn more about our Cancer Second Opinion Program.
Tumor Board Supports Team Approach
All patient cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary tumor board, a weekly meeting attended by the entire program team. Participants examine pathology results, discuss treatment options and together, form the best possible care plan for each patient. This approach ensures all treatment plans are based on the most recent science and the collective judgment of all the specialists involved in the care of blood cancer patients.
The Day Hospital
Patients who need outpatient chemotherapy, blood products and other infused treatments receive expert, compassionate care at the Day Hospital in the Clinical Cancer Center. With extended hours to fit patients’ schedules, the Day Hospital allows many patients to receive advanced treatment and then go home each day, rather than being hospitalized. Experienced cancer nurses provide state-of-the-art therapy within an environment designed specifically for the needs of cancer patients.
Clinical Trials Offer New Options
Clinical trials offer eligible patients the opportunity to receive innovative therapies. Physicians in the Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma Program hold leadership roles in national clinical trials cooperatives such as the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) and the Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network (BMT CTN). For a complete list of clinical studies available for blood cancers, search our clinical trials database.
Virtual Visits Are Available
Safe and convenient virtual visits by video let you get the care you need via a mobile device, tablet or computer wherever you are. We’ll gather your medical records for you and get our experts’ input so we can offer treatment options without an in-person visit. To schedule a virtual visit, call 1-866-680-0505.
Recognized as High Performing by U.S. News & World Report
Froedtert Hospital is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as high performing in three adult specialties and 15 procedures and conditions, including leukemia/lymphoma/myeloma and cancer.