Doing the research
Learn More About Your Diagnosis
Wherever you are in your fight against blood or lymphatic cancer, we are here to help you along the way.
At Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida, we believe knowledge is power. Our patients benefit from the same research and care procedures based on MD Anderson Cancer Center’s standards.
Together with MD Anderson, we provide the information and research you need to make decisions about your care.
Types of
Blood & Lymphatic Cancer
Blood and lymphatic cancer describes several different kinds of cancers. Each kind of blood and lymphatic cancer attacks different cells and locations in the body. Because of this, these cancers have their own identifiers and affect the body differently. Here are the main types of blood and lymphatic cancers we treat at Baptist MD Anderson.
Diagnosing Blood & Lymphatic Cancer
What We Look For
While hematologic cancers account for almost 10 percent of new cancer cases in the U.S. annually, more than 1.2 million people are either living with or in remission from a blood cancer.
How is blood and lymphatic cancer diagnosed?
Leukemia - A combination of blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy is used to diagnose leukemia.
Lymphoma - diagnostic tests for lymphoma may include:
- Blood tests
- Imaging, such as a CT scan or positron emission tomography (PET) scan
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, in special circumstances
- Lumbar puncture, in special circumstances
Myeloma - diagnostic tests for myeloma may include:
- Blood tests
- Skeletal survey
- MRI, CT scan or positron emission tomography (PET) scan
- Bone marrow biopsy
If you are diagnosed with cancer, Baptist MD Anderson doctors can thoroughly explain the treatment options for your unique situation and help you decide on the best plan for you.
In addition, a nurse navigator with specialized training in blood cancer will be with you throughout your cancer journey to answer questions, help coordinate care, provide emotional support and guide you every step of the way.
What is staging?
Identifying the stage, or extent, of your cancer is critical to determining the best course of treatment for your situation.
During your diagnosis, tests are usually done to determine the specific stage of a blood cancer and to find out if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or to other parts of your body.
Blood cancers have their own unique staging process. During your visit, your doctor will review your stage with you and answer any questions you may have.
How is staging used?
Information gathered in the blood cancer staging process includes:
- The cancer subtype (determined by lab tests)
- Age of the patient
- Other lab tests, such as blood chemistry tests
Once you know the stage of your blood cancer, you and your doctor can use this information to decide on the best treatment plan for you.
Getting the right diagnosis
Second Opinions
A second opinion can be a game-changer for patients. While it is rare for a diagnosis to change from malignant to benign, a second opinion may reveal other information. Our team verifies whether your staging is correct, your tumor size is correct and your overall assessment is correct. All of these factors can affect which treatment options you are offered.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, we have you covered. We have nurse navigators available to guide you through every step of your care. Request an appointment or speak to a nurse navigator by phone or online.
Our location
Hematology Oncology Clinic
Within our specialized clinics we bring together our team of experts to care for you. Each of our clinics are singularly focused on your specific needs and treatment.
Need Directions? The hematology-oncology clinic is located in the main Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center on Floor 6.
Find a Doctor
Our care team brings medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons and other specialists together for each patient.
For whatever step is next,
Baptist MD Anderson is Here for You
Our team of experts are ready to help you navigate the whirlwind of emotions, options and decisions through every aspect of your care.
Prepare For Your Appointment
See everything you need to know before coming in.
Find a Support Service
Care for your mental, spiritual health, too.
Billing & Insurance
Resources for insurance and financial questions.
They walked me through everything and made me feel as comfortable as possible, so I didn’t have to stress about anything.
—DANIEL’S STORY
Cancer was the last thing on this college student’s mind, but just days after graduation, Daniel Ellis began treatment at Baptist MD Anderson.