Clinical Programs
The Division of Hematology provides diagnosis and therapy for all hematological malignancies and non-neoplastic conditions such as anemias, coagulation disorders, and white cell diseases. The division is organized in three sections: myeloma, hematologic malignancies, and benign hematology. Our major focus is the treatment of leukemias, lymphomas, and myelodysplastic syndromes using a variety of chemotherapeutic approaches, autologous and allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, and biologic response-modifying agents, as well as many of the most current evidence-based approaches.
The division has multidisciplinary team meetings for stem cell transplant and malignant hematology, and the team consists of cancer specialists who are focused on particular types of cancer. Team members include specialists from each discipline, including diagnostic, hematology, pathology, immunology, cellular therapy, radiology, oncology nursing, supportive care, and when appropriate, molecular genetics. The team thrives on collaboration for appropriate diagnoses and formulation of the treatment plan.
In addition to treatment of blood cell cancers, the team provides diagnosis and therapy for sickle cell disease, hemaglobinopathies, and clotting disorders. A very large clinical program also focuses on state of the art treatment of multiple myeloma.
Research Programs
The major focus of clinical and laboratory investigation is on B cell neoplasia, especially multiple myeloma and related disorders. The work includes research to identify the tumor stem cell of multiple myeloma and studies of the cytokine network involved in myeloma growth and disease manifestation. Mechanisms of growth control exerted by various host cells are also being studied such as natural killer and cytoxic T cells. Other research areas address the regulation of normal hemotopoiesis and protection of normal tissue from cytotoxic drug damage. Additionally, there is a multidisciplinary research program for cutaneous lymphomas.
Fellow Training
A fellowship in Hematology-Oncology is jointly operated by the Division of Medical Oncology and the Division of Hematology. Kostas Arnaoutakis, M.D., is the fellowship program director. The fellowship is a three year program, with four fellows in each year. It provides broad clinical and research training in many aspects of hematology and oncology and is a highly successful program. In recent years, at least half of program graduates pursue a full time academic career.
Contact Us
Division of Hematology and Oncology: 501-686-8511 (academic office)