Chemotherapy
Medicines that destroy cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It is usually given in cycles, with rest periods in between so your body can recover.
Blood cancer care
Immunotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapy
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a blood or lymphatic cancer, I can look after your treatment from the first review to the months and years that follow. I see patients at my private practice at The Blackheath Hospital, and I take the time to explain each step so that you and your family know what is happening and why.
Dr Thomas Erblich, Consultant Haematologist · The Blackheath Hospital, London
The treatments
Three kinds of treatment, explained simply
Blood and lymphatic cancers are treated in different ways, and many people receive a combination. Which approach suits you depends on your diagnosis, your general health and what matters to you. We will decide together.
Immunotherapy
Treatments that help your own immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. Some are antibodies designed to latch on to the cancer cells so the immune system can find them.
Targeted therapy
Medicines that act on particular features of the cancer cells, such as the signals they rely on to grow. They aim to affect healthy cells less than traditional chemotherapy.
How I look after you
Whatever your treatment, my role is to make sure it is safe, well planned and right for you, and to be there when questions or problems come up.
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Pre-treatment review
Before each stage of chemotherapy I review you and your latest blood results to confirm you are well enough to go ahead.
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Clinical supervision and planning
I plan how your chemotherapy is delivered and supervise it throughout, adjusting the plan if your body needs more time or a different approach.
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Acute oncology consults
If something changes during treatment and you need timely specialist advice, I can see you for an acute oncology consultation.
Want to understand your diagnosis first? Read more about the conditions these treatments are used for.
What to expect
Before, during and after treatment
Treatment can feel like a lot to take in. Here is how it usually unfolds, so you and your family know what lies ahead.
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Before
We meet to talk through your diagnosis, your treatment options and what each one involves. I review your health and blood results to make sure treatment is safe to start, and we agree a plan together. Family members are very welcome to join.
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During
I supervise your treatment and check your blood results before each cycle. If side effects build up or you feel unwell, we can pause, adjust or seek specialist advice quickly, so you are never left wondering what to do.
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After
My care does not stop when treatment ends. I keep an eye on your recovery and your blood counts with regular reviews, and we talk about what to look out for and how to get back to everyday life.
Would you like another view on your treatment plan?
If you have been offered treatment elsewhere and want to be sure it is the right path, a second opinion can bring peace of mind.
Find out about second opinionsIf you feel unwell during treatment
Some treatments lower your ability to fight infection. Please use the emergency contact details your treatment team gives you if you develop a temperature or feel suddenly unwell. In an emergency, call 999. If you are treated at The Blackheath Hospital, you will find the important numbers just below.
Important numbers at The Blackheath Hospital
For patients having tests or treatment with Dr Erblich at The Blackheath Hospital.
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Haematology day unit
Monday to Friday, 9am – 4pm
020 8463 1819
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Emergency number
For patients having chemotherapy
07738 887 885
In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999.
Questions
Common questions
If your question is not answered here, please get in touch and we will be glad to help.
Contact the practiceDo I need a confirmed diagnosis before booking?
This service is for patients who have already been diagnosed with a blood or lymphatic cancer. If you are still waiting for answers, or have worrying blood test results, an initial consultation is the best place to start. You can find it on the haematology services page.
Can a family member come with me?
Yes, please do bring someone with you. A partner, parent or friend can help you remember what we discussed and ask the questions you might not think of on the day.
Where will I be seen?
I see private patients at The Blackheath Hospital in south-east London. Directions and clinic hours are on the contact page.
How much will my treatment cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Costs depend on the treatment you need and how long it lasts, so they are worked out for each person. If you have private medical insurance, please check your cover with your insurer before treatment begins. For help with either, contact the practice.
Arrange your appointment with Dr Erblich
Book online through Circle Health Group, or email the practice first if you have a question or are not sure which appointment you need.