Leukemias
Each year, more than 60,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with leukemia. The good news is that survival rates of this type of cancer have more than quadrupled since 1960 thanks to ever-advancing treatments. At Charleston Oncology, the team of oncologists and hematologists provide these cutting-edge treatments to patients arming them with the tools necessary to combat the disease. To learn more, call to schedule a consultation.
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Board Certified Oncologists Specializing in Leukemia
Downtown, Mt. Pleasant, West Ashley
N. Charleston, Summerville, Walterboro
Read the Blogs
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Common Questions
What are the main types of leukemia and how are they different?
The four major categories are: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) — fast-growing, common in children but also occurring in adults; Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) — fast-growing, primarily affecting adults; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) — slow-growing, most common leukemia in adults; and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) — slow-growing, associated with the Philadelphia chromosome genetic change. Each type has a distinct biology, prognosis, and treatment approach, underscoring the importance of subspecialized hematology-oncology expertise.
Does leukemia always require immediate, aggressive treatment?
Not always. Acute leukemias (AML and ALL) are medical situations that typically require prompt, aggressive treatment. Chronic leukemias — particularly CLL — may not require immediate treatment in early-stage disease; a ‘watch and wait’ strategy is appropriate for many CLL patients. CML is now largely managed with once-daily oral targeted therapy (tyrosine kinase inhibitors), allowing most patients to achieve deep remission and maintain a normal quality of life. Your hematologist/oncologist will determine the right approach and timing based on your specific diagnosis.
What is a bone marrow biopsy, and will I need one?
A bone marrow biopsy removes a small sample of bone marrow — usually from the back of the hip bone — for laboratory analysis. It is an important diagnostic procedure for leukemia, providing information about the type of leukemia, the degree of bone marrow involvement, chromosomal and molecular characteristics, and treatment response. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is uncomfortable but generally well-tolerated. Your hematologist will explain if and when this procedure is indicated.
What advances in leukemia treatment should I know about?
Leukemia treatment has advanced dramatically in recent decades. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors have converted CML from a life-threatening disease into a manageable chronic condition for most patients. CAR-T cell therapy has achieved remarkable remission rates in certain relapsed or refractory ALL and CLL patients. Venetoclax-based combinations have significantly improved outcomes in AML and CLL. FLT3 and IDH inhibitors have expanded targeted therapy options in AML. Charleston Oncology stays at the forefront of these advances through clinical trial participation and subspecialized expertise.
Will leukemia treatment affect my ability to work or maintain normal activities?
This depends significantly on the type of leukemia and the treatment involved. Patients with chronic leukemias managed with oral targeted therapy often maintain a relatively normal daily routine. Acute leukemia treatment involving intensive induction chemotherapy is more demanding and will impact daily activities during the active treatment phase. Your oncology team, along with oncology social workers and supportive care specialists, will provide resources to help you manage the impact of treatment on work, family, and quality of life.
