Leukemia Overview
Leukemia is cancer that starts in the tissues that form blood.
The types of leukemia can be grouped based on how quickly the disease develops and gets worse. Leukemia is either chronic (which usually gets worse slowly) or acute (which usually gets worse quickly):
- Chronic Leukemia: Early in the disease, the leukemia cells can still do some of the work of normal white blood cells. People may not have any symptoms at first. Doctors often find chronic leukemia during a routine checkup – before there are any symptoms. Slowly, chronic leukemia gets worse. As the number of leukemia cells in the blood increases, people get symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes or infections. When symptoms do appear, they are usually mild at first and get worse gradually.
- Acute Leukemia: The leukemia cells can’t do any of the work of normal white blood cells. The number of leukemia cells increases rapidly. Acute leukemia usually worsens quickly.
Arizona Oncology offers an integrated team-oriented approach to provide you with the best possible care. We are also eager to explain the facts and answer your questions at every step along the way. Our team of dedicated, highly-trained physicians and staff is committed to providing the highest quality compassionate care to our patients.
We understand that a new diagnosis of leukemia can be overwhelming. Working with your personal Nurse Navigator, our team of experts will arrange your consultation quickly so you can get the information you need. We will help you, and your family, make individualized treatment decisions in partnership with our medical team. During this process, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to help manage your cancer and continue with routine activities of daily life.
Arizona Oncology has offices located throughout the State where you will receive state-of-the-art treatment in a caring and comfortable environment close to home, work, and family.
Select the links below to learn more about our specialized services:
Individualized Treatment Planning
Our program is designed to provide patients and their loved ones with the knowledge to help choose the course of treatment that best fits their needs, in collaboration with a specialized medical team. Advances in leukemia research now allow us to plan personalized treatment based on the specific biologic characteristics of your cancer, resulting in better outcomes and fewer side effects. During your consultation, you will learn about treatment options for leukemia. We will take the time and opportunity to answer your questions and ensure that you understand the reasoning behind our recommendations.
One-on-One Guidance
Our uniquely trained cancer Nurse Navigators are available during your first consultation. Your Navigator is your one-on-one guide from diagnosis through treatment and beyond, and can act as a point of contact for any questions or concerns you may have over time. Your Navigator is available to assist you and direct you to resources for financial assistance programs, community resources, supportive care programs, and more.
Clinical Trials
Our participation in high-priority clinical trials through US Oncology Research may provide early access to new therapies that are not available elsewhere. We believe in clinical research, and hope that you will consider participating in the development of new treatments through innovative research, making strides to ensure that tomorrow’s care will be even better than today’s.
Multidisciplinary Case Review
Your medical team will perform an in depth review of your case to enhance communication and guide individualized treatment recommendations. This will generally include input from surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and genetics.
Testing and Treatment
Arizona Oncology offers the latest treatments in leukemia, and our team provides the most informed, individualized treatment recommendations. We also offer genetic counseling and screening for patients and their families.
Supportive Care
Our team is committed to supporting you as a whole throughout your cancer experience. We coordinate and work with many foundations throughout the community to help support your needs during treatment.
Convenient Appointments
Our scheduling staff will work with patients to arrange convenient appointments.
Visit the National Cancer Institute where this information and more can be found about Leukemia including treatments, support information and more.