Leukemia

Leukemia treatment for adults in San Diego

A mature man enjoys a day in nature representing the quality of life that can be had following leukemia treatment.

Leukemia treatment for adults in San Diego

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow. Bone marrow is the soft tissue in the center of the bones, where blood cells are produced. The term leukemia means "white blood." 


White blood cells (leukocytes) are used by the body to fight infections and other foreign substances. Leukocytes are made in the bone marrow. Leukemia leads to an uncontrolled increase in the number of white blood cells. These cancerous cells prevent healthy red blood cells, platelets and mature white blood cells from being made. Life-threatening symptoms can then develop as normal blood cells decline.


Scripps Cancer Center and the Scripps Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program in San Diego provides specialized care to adults with blood diseases, including leukemia. Scripps physicians use the most advanced treatments, including stem cell transplant and biologic therapy, to eliminate cancer while maintaining quality of life. In addition, our multidisciplinary, collaborative board of cancer specialists reviews complex care plans to ensure patients receive the best possible care from diagnosis to recovery.

Detection of leukemia

Leukemia can affect children and adults and are divided into 2 major types:


  • Acute leukemia, which progresses quickly
  • Chronic leukemia, which progresses more slowly


The main types of leukemia are:


  • Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
  • Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
  • Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
  • Hairy cell leukemia

Treatment of leukemia

Your Scripps cancer care team includes professionals from every area of oncology, including physicians, surgeons, radiation oncologists and nurses who specialize in cancer care. Learn more about how Scripps puts you at the center of care.

Leukemia treatment locations

Scripps diagnoses and treats leukemia at locations throughout San Diego County. From Chula Vista and La Jolla to Encinitas and beyond, our extensive network of Southern California cancer care centers includes:


  • Four Scripps hospitals on five campuses
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Specialty cancer treatment centers


We are now offering Video Visits for some specialty care appointments. If you are interested in scheduling a Video Visit, contact the provider’s office directly. The doctor’s office will work with you to determine if this is the right type of visit for you.


The Scripps Blood and Marrow Transplant Program is offered at: 


Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines

10666 North Torrey Pines Road

La Jolla, CA 92037


Inpatient services are provided at Scripps Green Hospital, which shares a campus with Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines. The hospital and clinic are located about 15 miles north of downtown San Diego.


For details on specific centers and their services, visit cancer care locations.

Support groups, services and resources

As leaders in cancer care, we know what it takes to fight a winning battle. That’s why we equip our patients with the support and resources necessary to achieve their best possible outcome. From connecting you with support groups and services to empowering you with the latest resources and research, Scripps offers a comprehensive lineup to help you along every step of your cancer journey.