To detect it, your doctor, in addition to performing a physical examination and checking your medical history, will request blood tests, genetic tests, and bone marrow tests, the latter by bone marrow aspiration from the hip. Additional tests may also be needed to find out if the cancer has spread to other areas of your body.
Treatment and how long it lasts will depend on the type of leukemia and how advanced it is, as well as your age and physical condition, but it usually includes:
- Radiation therapy.
- Chemotherapy.
- Hematopoietic cell transplant.
- Biological therapy.
Each case is different and the combination of therapies varies, so your doctor will determine the optimal treatment plan for you, but it usually lasts more than a year and in complicated situations, up to two years.
The short-term goal is the remission of the disease and to achieve a total cure in the long term.
Collateral damage:
- Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
- Weight loss.
- Skin dryness.
- Hair loss.
- Tiredness and weakness.
- Lack of appetite.
- Recurring infections.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Emotional instability.
Since its inauguration in 2009, our Cancer Center offers chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatments at the level of the best medical centers in the world through a comprehensive care model for cancer patients.
In chemotherapy, we include the most innovative therapies in comfortable facilities specially designed for your peace of mind and comfort.
In radiation therapy procedures, we provide you with evidence-based treatment plans discussed together with experts from Houston Methodist Hospital, using state-of-the-art technological equipment in state-of-the-art facilities.