A leukemia diagnosis can have a significant impact on your health and well being. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what happens next. You don’t have to go through it alone. The expert oncology team at Cancer Specialists of North Florida is here to provide personalized leukemia treatment in Jacksonville, FL, offering compassionate cancer care close to home.
Leukemia
Leukemia Treatment in Jacksonville, FL
Leukemia is a group of blood cancers. Treatment varies depending on the type of leukemia and each patient’s needs. At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, we understand every leukemia diagnosis is unique. For more than 30 years, we have provided expert, patient-centered leukemia treatment in Jacksonville, FL and the surrounding areas.
Signs & Symptoms
Early signs of leukemia can be easy to miss as many symptoms are often mistaken for more common illnesses. Common signs and symptoms of leukemia include:
- Fever
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Chills
- Bone or joint pain
- Tiny red spots on your skin
These symptoms don’t always point to leukemia, but if something doesn’t feel right or if you have concerns, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.
Risk Factors
Anyone can get leukemia, but certain factors can increase a person’s risk. Common risk factors for leukemia include:
- Smoking
- Age
- Radiation exposure
- Previous cancer treatment
- Family history
- Gender – most leukemias are more common in males than in females
- Certain blood disorders – chronic myeloproliferative disorders and myelodysplastic syndromes
Screening & Diagnosis
There is currently no widely accepted screening method for leukemia. It is difficult to detect in its earliest stages, meaning a diagnosis can often come out of the blue for many patients. Oftentimes, it is initially detected during a routine blood test, before symptoms develop. If you are experiencing leukemia symptoms, your doctor may conduct a physical exam, order a blood test, or conduct a bone marrow biopsy to confirm a diagnosis.
Types & Stages
There are four main types of leukemia:
- Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) – A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. ALL can develop at any age, but is most common in children between three and five years old.
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) – A rare and fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow. AML causes myeloid cells to multiply uncontrollably and fill your bone marrow. AML treatment usually needs to begin right away.
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) – The most common blood cancer in adults, CLL progresses slowly. There is no known cure, but treatment can often put the disease into remission for a long time.
- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) – A relatively rare and slow-growing cancer of the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. CML is typically found in older adults. Most people with CML have a gene mutation called the Philadelphia chromosome. This can lead to the development of abnormal white blood cells and cancer growth.
Leukemia is not staged the same way as cancers that develop solid tumors. Rather than focusing on tumor size and growth, staging for leukemia depends on blood cell count, bone marrow growth, and potential genetic mutations. Staging can be further defined based on the type of leukemia you have.
Leukemia Treatment Options
At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, we take a multidisciplinary approach to leukemia treatment. Our team of leukemia experts come together to develop a treatment plan tailored to your diagnosis and goals, while providing the support you need throughout your care.
Depending on your diagnoses, your treatment plan may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trials
Beyond medical treatment, we also provide access to supportive services to aid in your recovery. From clinical trials and nutritional support to counsel with social workers and financial assistance, our care extends well beyond the initial diagnosis.
Why Choose Cancer Specialists of North Florida For Leukemia Treatment
Cancer Specialists of North Florida is one of the area’s leading, physician-owned oncology practices. Our multidisciplinary team has been helping patients with leukemia treatment for more than 30 years. With multiple locations, access to advanced treatment options, and a dedicated team of cancer specialists, we’re here to provide the expert cancer care you need close to home.
Find The Nearest Location for Leukemia Treatment
Cancer Specialists of North Florida has 11 convenient locations, making it easier for you to access expert leukemia treatment in Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have leukemia for years and not know it?
Yes. Some types of leukemia develop slowly making them difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and chills resemble cold or flu-like symptoms. In many cases, leukemia is diagnosed incidentally through routine blood work before noticeable symptoms develop.
What is the difference between acute and chronic leukemia?
Leukemia is typically classified as either acute or chronic. Acute leukemia develops quickly and affects immature blood cells. It is more common in children. Chronic leukemia develops slowly and affects more mature, abnormal cells. It can take months or even years for symptoms to appear and is more often found in adults.
What are the early warning signs of leukemia in children?
Leukemia is the most common type of cancer in children, making up about 1 in 3 childhood cancer cases. Early warning signs of leukemia in children include persistent fatigue, frequent infections, bruising easily, bone or joint pain, pale skin, recurrent fever, and pain or feeling of fullness. If you’re concerned about possible signs of leukemia in your child, our team is here to help.
What is the prognosis for leukemia?
Leukemia is a serious condition and your prognosis depends on several factors, including the type, your age, and overall health. Our team of experts will come up with a personalized treatment plan designed to support your goals and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
