Oncology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. An oncologist is a medical professional who specializes in managing a person’s care and treatment once they are diagnosed with cancer. A referral to an oncologist is typically made by a primary care physician or another specialist when there is a suspicion or confirmation of cancer. The oncologist’s role is to coordinate a comprehensive treatment plan, which may involve various medical disciplines to provide thorough care. Here’s information on some health conditions that necessitate a consultation:
Breast Cancer
A referral to an oncology specialist is common following a breast cancer diagnosis. Oncology is central to its treatment because management often requires a multifaceted approach. An oncologist will determine the specifics of the cancer, like its stage and type, to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan can include surgery to remove cancerous tissue, radiation therapy to target remaining cancer cells, chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells throughout the body, or hormone therapy to stop hormones fueling cancer growth. The oncologist oversees this process, adjusting treatments as needed and managing the patient’s overall health.
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect the digestive system, which may affect the:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Small intestine
- Large intestine
- Liver
- Gallbladder
- Pancreas
A person may be referred to an oncologist if tests indicate the presence of tumors or abnormal cells within any part of the gastrointestinal tract. The oncologist will work to identify the precise location and extent of the cancer to recommend a course of action. Treatment for GI cancers often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Hematologic Cancer
Hematologic cancer, or blood cancer, originates in blood-forming tissue, like the bone marrow, or in the cells of the immune system. These cancers affect the production and function of your blood cells. An oncologist specializing in hematology will manage the diagnosis and treatment of these complex conditions.
Treatments for Blood Cancers
Treatment for hematologic cancers is highly specialized and depends on the specific type of cancer, its progression, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and targeted therapy. Chemotherapy is used to eliminate cancerous cells, while stem cell transplantation replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy cells. Targeted therapy uses drugs to attack specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells. Immunotherapy, which helps the body’s immune system fight cancer, is also a treatment option.
Types of Blood Cancers
There are three categories of hematologic cancers:
- Leukemia: This cancer originates in the blood and bone marrow, leading to the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells are not able to fight infection and impair the ability of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells and platelets.
- Lymphoma: This cancer affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s germ-fighting network. It causes lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, to grow out of control.
- Myeloma: This cancer forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Healthy plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells.
Learn More About Oncology Today
Oncology plays a fundamental part in the medical field, providing specialized care for individuals with cancer. For specific medical questions or concerns, it is always best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider. Contact an oncologist today to learn more.
