Hematologic Cancers

Every three minutes, someone in the United States is diagnosed with hematologic (blood) cancer. It begins in the bone marrow, where immune system and other stem cells are formed.

A father and son spending time together in a kitchen, representing life during and after cancer treatment

At the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, advances in treatment have significantly improved cure and survival rates for hematologic cancers, helping ensure patients receive high-quality care close to home.

Each patient’s treatment team includes a hematologic cancer specialist (hematopathologist), along with chemotherapy and radiation nurses, social workers , nurse navigators , and other specialists. Patients benefit from the full expertise of the Cancer Institute, not just a single physician.

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Call 855.255.6181 or request a callback for support, advice, or a second opinion.

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Types of Hematologic Cancer

The three most common blood cancers:

  • Leukemia: Cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue, such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream.
  • Lymphoma: Develops in the body’s lymphatic system. NonHodgkin lymphoma is linked to lymphocytes, white blood cells that fight infection. Hodgkin lymphoma is linked to abnormal lymphocytes called the Reed-Sternberg cell.
  • Multiple Myeloma: Found in plasma cells made in the bone marrow. 

Diagnosing Hematologic Cancers

Your doctor may recommend these tests to see if you have a blood cancer:

  • Blood tests
  • Bone marrow exam
  • Diagnostic imaging tests (CT scan, PET scan, X-ray)
  • Biopsy, or the surgical removal of a lymph node for examination

Treating Hematologic Cancers

Most hematologic cancers require immediate treatment.

Treatment can include:

Learn more about Bone Marrow Transplant


Hematologic Cancers
Support at the Cancer Institute

The Cancer Institute offers whatever you and your family need on your journey, whether it’s access to an oncology social worker, a nurse navigator to coordinate your care or the support of our Patient and Family Resource Center.

Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute