Blood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. Bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found inside the bones, where blood cells are produced. In blood cancer, there is an abnormal growth of blood cells or when the blood cells do not function normally, which can affect the bone marrow.
Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that affects white blood cells. It occurs when the bone marrow produces too many abnormal white blood cells, which can prevent the production of healthy red blood cells and platelets. The abnormal white blood cells also do not function properly and can accumulate in various organs, causing damage.
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and organs that help to fight infections. It occurs when abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow out of control and form tumors in the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The tumors can affect the bone marrow and interfere with the production of blood cells.
Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that affects the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies. It occurs when abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and form tumors, which can cause bone pain and fractures.
Bone marrow plays a critical role in the development of healthy blood cells. In blood cancer, the abnormal growth of blood cells can interfere with the production of normal blood cells, which can lead to a range of symptoms and complications. Treatment options for blood cancer may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation, which aims to destroy the abnormal blood cells and restore the normal functioning of the bone marrow.