A Comprehensive Review of Blood Cancer: Classification, Pathogenesis, Diagnostic Methods, and Management Advances

Abstract

Hematological malignancy or blood cancer is a group of cancers that originate in blood-forming tissues like bone marrow and lymphatic system. The three main types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Blood cancers involve the uncontrolled growth of abnormal blood cells, which interferes with normal blood cell production and immune function. Blood cancer is a major health challenge of the world and the leading contributor to cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. The development of these malignancies is associated with a combination of genetic , environmental and immunological factors including chromosomal abnormalities , exposure to ionizing radiation and toxic chemicals , viral infections and inherited predisposition . Typical clinical manifestations include fatigue, anemia, recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, lymphadenopathy, and bleeding disorders. Recent advances in diagnostic techniques such as flow cytometry, cytogenetic analysis, molecular testing and next-generation sequencing have enhanced early detection and risk stratification. Treatment strategies have been significantly improved and include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Novel therapeutic strategies, including chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy and precision medicine, have shown promise in patients with resistant or relapsed disease. This review summarizes the classification, epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, treatment options, and recent advances in the management of blood cancers. Further studies on molecular mechanisms and personalized therapeutic interventions are expected to improve survival rate, reduce treatment related complication and improve the quality of life of affected individuals.