Leukemia

Leukemia affects patients of all ages, at Franciscan Health our team of oncologists approaches treatment with personalized care.

Leukemia

Leukemia affects patients of all ages, at Franciscan Health our team of oncologists approaches treatment with personalized care.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system. Leukemia does not produce a mass (tumor), but results in the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. The white blood cells build up and block the production of red blood cells and platelets, which help the body form clots to prevent bleeding. As a result, people with leukemia are at risk for bruising, bleeding and infections.

There are several subtypes of leukemia, but the four main forms are:

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)

How is leukemia diagnosed?

Leukemia may be diagnosed by a physical exam or routine blood tests. If your blood tests are not normal, a bone marrow biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. During this procedure, the doctor removes a sample of bone marrow tissue from a bone in your hip.

Find A Provider

Our providers offer comprehensive treatment options. We make it easy to find exceptional providers and get world-class care, right where you live and work.

Franciscan Health Oncology Nurse Navigators serve a special and important role. As registered nurses specially trained in cancer care, they serve as personal guides and advocates, walking alongside our patients and their families during their cancer journey by providing:

A single point of contact for the care team
Education and information about your diagnosis, treatment options and care plan
Assistance with timely appointments, insurance issues and access to resources
Emotional support and encouragement

Request An Appointment

Because there are several types of leukemia, treatment varies. Treatments may include:

Franciscan Health gives you and your family a supportive environment for learning, sharing and healing during cancer treatment and beyond. And, because every Cancer experience is unique, we provide comprehensive services that address your physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.

Oncology Nurse Navigators
Cancer Second Opinion
Cancer Support
Cancer Survivorship Program

Indiana Blood & Marrow Transplantation (IBMT) in Indianapolis, is nationally recognized and one of only two programs in the state of Indiana offering tertiary care for hematological disorders, blood cancers including bone marrow/ stem cell transplants and CAR T-Cell therapies. IBMT specializes in the treatment of leukemia, Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma and other malignant blood disorders.