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Hematology cancer care

Diagnosis and treatment for blood cancers

If you have been diagnosed with a blood cancer, our hematology team at Allina Health is here to help you manage symptoms and find the best treatment options for your life. 

People may be affected by many different types of blood cancer. These include leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. In most blood cancers, the normal blood cell development process is interrupted by uncontrolled growth of an abnormal type of blood cell. These abnormal blood cells, or cancerous cells, prevent blood from performing many of its functions, like fighting off infections or preventing serious bleeding. 

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Hematology cancer care at Allina Health

At Allina Health, you have access to leading-edge technology and innovative treatment methods through the Allina Health Cancer Institute. This program includes a partnership with Harvard Medical School through the Dana Farber Blood Cancer Research Partnership. 

At the Allina Health Cancer Institute, you receive expert care for you as a whole person – treating your cancer but also addressing your overall physical and mental wellness. That means putting you at the center of your care, so your wishes, values and goals are respected at every step. 

Your team at Allina Health may include medical oncologists, hematologists, surgeons, social workers, radiologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, nurse navigators and nurses who specialize in cancer. They come together to share their expertise, continuously improve the care they provide and ensure that you are receiving treatment that is individualized to your specific needs. 

We also want you to be involved with your care, which is why we will provide you with both tools and support. This includes access to your Allina Health account, so you can do things like track your appointments and review your test results online.

Diagnosis of a blood cancer

At Allina Health, the diagnosis of a blood cancer, such as leukemia, multiple myeloma or lymphoma, is based on the results of tests. Your team of experts and specialists will work with you to determine those tests you need. These may include:  

  • blood chemistry tests, including tests for protein level, liver function, kidney function and uric acid level 

  • bone marrow biopsy 

  • lymph node or other tissue biopsy 

  • CT (computed tomography) scans 

  • immunofixation (IFE test) 

Some cases of leukemia are hereditary, and genetic counseling may be right for you. may be right for you. 

Treatment of blood cancer at Allina Health

Treatment for your blood cancer will depend on your specific needs, and your hematology team will work closely with you to determine the best treatment for you. Your treatment may include one or more of the following:  

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Source: Allina Health Cancer Institute
Reviewed by: Michel Kranz, BSN, RN

First published: 6/6/2019
Last reviewed: 11/4/2021