Leukemia is a cancer of the blood. As in all cancers, hematologic malignancies arise from cells that become abnormal and are produced in excessive amounts. The abnormal growth interferes with the body's production of healthy blood cells, thus making the body unable to protect itself against infections.
The hematology/oncology team at University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, is internationally recognized for its innovative and comprehensive program of care. Many of the treatments now available to patients with hematologic malignancies were pioneered here at the University of Minnesota.
Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of blood cells. About 30,000 new cases of leukemia in the United States are reported each year. Most cases occur in older adults, though leukemia is the most common type of childhood cancer.
Leukemia is either acute or chronic. In acute leukemia, the abnormal blood cells remain immature and cannot carry out their normal functions. The number of these cells increases rapidly, and the disease gets worse quickly. In chronic leukemia, some abnormal cells are present, but in general, these cells are more mature and can carry out some of their normal functions. Also, the number of abnormal cells increases less rapidly than in acute leukemia. As a result, chronic leukemia worsens gradually.
For more information on leukemia, visit University of Minnesota Physicians Cancer Care at Fairview
Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of blood cells. About 30,000 new cases of leukemia in the United States are reported each year. Most cases occur in older adults, though leukemia is the most common type of childhood cancer.
Leukemia is either acute or chronic. In acute leukemia, the abnormal blood cells remain immature and cannot carry out their normal functions. The number of these cells increases rapidly, and the disease gets worse quickly. In chronic leukemia, some abnormal cells are present, but in general, these cells are more mature and can carry out some of their normal functions. Also, the number of abnormal cells increases less rapidly than in acute leukemia. As a result, chronic leukemia worsens gradually.
For more information on leukemia, visit University of Minnesota Physicians Cancer Care at Fairview
Doctors & Providers
Blood and Marrow Transplant
Hematology
Hematology/Oncology
Our Providers Make the Difference
Fairview features nearly 4,000 providers practicing at over 200 locations throughout the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area and beyond. Fairview Clinics, University of Minnesota Physicians and our independent partner clinics provide an exceptional care experience, while lowering the overall costs of health care.
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Minneapolis
Our Providers Make the Difference
Fairview features nearly 4,000 providers practicing at over 200 locations throughout the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area and beyond. Fairview Clinics, University of Minnesota Physicians and our independent partner clinics provide an exceptional care experience, while lowering the overall costs of health care.
