Dr. Geetha Akula, MD

About Dr. Geetha Akula, MD

Dr. Geetha Akula, MD is a Hematology-Oncology physician dedicated to providing exceptional, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute in Orlando, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). She specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of cancers and blood disorders, employing chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other advanced therapies while prioritizing patient well-being and managing treatment side effects. She serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients; please call (407) 426-8484 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Akula's extensive training and experience make her uniquely qualified to address the complex needs of her patients. A board-certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, she treats patients with a broad range of oncologic and hematologic diseases, with a special focus on multiple myeloma, colon, lung, and breast cancers. Her journey includes a medical degree from Gandhi Medical College in Hyderabad, India, followed by internships and residencies at Cabrini Medical Center in New York. Further specialization was achieved through fellowships in Hematology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and neoplastic diseases at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. She is also certified in hospice and palliative care and holds board certifications in Hematology, Internal Medicine, and Medical Oncology from the American Board of Internal Medicine. Her comprehensive approach to patient care, informed by her diverse background, ensures that every patient receives personalized attention and support.

At Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Dr. Akula's commitment to patient well-being is deeply ingrained in her practice philosophy. She understands the unique challenges faced by those navigating cancer diagnoses and treatments, and strives to provide compassionate care that prioritizes not only the medical needs but also the emotional and practical aspects of the patient journey. Dr. Geetha Akula offers consultations in several languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.

Hemato-Oncologic Conditions Addressed

Dr. Geetha Akula addresses a wide range of Hemato-oncologic health concerns, including:

• Neuroendocrine Tumors: Neuroendocrine tumors are rare growths that can develop in various parts of the body.
• Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma: It's a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that develops from a specific type of white blood cell called a T-cell.
• Reticulosarcoma: Reticulosarcoma is a rare cancer of the lymphatic system.
• Follicular Lymphoma Grade 1: Follicular lymphoma grade 1 is characterized by its indolent (slow-growing) nature.
• Blood Disorders in Pregnancy: Pregnancy can affect existing blood disorders and new blood problems can develop during this time.
• Leukemia: Characterized by an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, leukemia can affect various age groups.
• Polycythemia Rubra Vera: Polycythemia vera is a rare blood cancer where your bone marrow makes too many red blood cells.
• Male Breast Carcinoma: Male breast cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the breast tissue of males.
• Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Antiphospholipid syndrome is a condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks substances in your blood, potentially leading to blood clots and other health problems.
• Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia: Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a rare type of blood cancer affecting the bone marrow's production of white blood cells.
• Blood Cancer: Blood cancers can cause symptoms such as fatigue, easy bruising, and frequent infections.
• Thalassemia: With thalassemia, your bone marrow doesn't produce enough healthy red blood cells, resulting in fatigue and other symptoms.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Geetha Akula addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Hematology-Oncology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Hemato-Oncologic Services Provided

Dr. Geetha Akula offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Lumpectomy: A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a breast tumor while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible.
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: Doctors use a bone marrow biopsy to assess the health of your bone marrow and identify any cancerous or non-cancerous conditions.
• Leukemia Diagnostic Evaluations: Leukemia diagnostic evaluations help doctors confirm a leukemia diagnosis and classify the specific type of leukemia.
• Hospice Care Services: Hospice care offers a holistic approach to end-of-life care, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
• Cancer Immunotherapy: This type of cancer treatment helps your body's natural defenses recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
• Cancer Treatment: This hematology and oncology service provides comprehensive cancer care and treatment.
• Erythropoietin Test: This test measures the amount of erythropoietin in your blood, helping your doctor understand how your body produces red blood cells.
• Lymphoma Evaluation: Doctors perform a lymphoma evaluation to identify the presence and characteristics of lymphoma using various diagnostic tools.
• Cancer Pain Management: Cancer pain management focuses on relieving and controlling pain caused by cancer or its treatment.
• Breast Cancer Treatment: This service provides comprehensive care for breast cancer, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.
• Oral Cancer Screening: This service provides screenings to detect oral cancer early.
• Prostate Cancer Treatment: This service provides comprehensive care for prostate cancer, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Geetha Akula. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Hematology-Oncology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Hematology-Oncology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Geetha Akula:

What is a Hematologist/Oncologist?

A hematologist/oncologist is a doctor specializing in both hematology (blood disorders) and oncology (cancer). They diagnose and treat various blood cancers, solid tumors, and non-cancerous blood disorders. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with these conditions.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Geetha Akula?

Your first visit with Dr. Akula will be a comprehensive consultation. We will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and discuss potential diagnoses and treatment options. Please bring all prior medical records, imaging reports, and pathology slides for the appointment.

Does Dr. Geetha Akula accept my insurance?

Dr. Akula's practice accepts many insurance plans. However, cancer and hematology care can be complex. Please contact our financial counselors or your insurance provider directly to confirm coverage for your specific treatments.

How is chemotherapy used for colon cancer?

Chemotherapy for colon cancer can be used in various ways. It may be given after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to lower the risk of the cancer returning. In advanced or metastatic cases, chemotherapy helps control the disease and improve survival.

How important is nutrition during my cancer treatment?

Good nutrition is a critical part of your cancer treatment plan. It helps you maintain strength, tolerate treatment better, and recover faster. Dr. Akula works closely with registered dietitians to help manage your diet and any related symptoms.

Does Dr. Geetha Akula participate in clinical trials?

Dr. Akula's practice offers access to clinical trials, providing patients with potential access to innovative treatments. Participation is voluntary and based on strict eligibility criteria. These trials offer new and promising therapies not yet widely available.

What is chemotherapy and how is it given?

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells. It can be given intravenously (IV) through a port or vein at an infusion center, or sometimes as oral pills. Our team will work with you to determine the best method for your specific needs.

I have a history of blood clots. How is that managed during cancer treatment?

Cancer and its treatments can increase the risk of blood clots. Dr. Akula is an expert in managing this risk, often by prescribing blood-thinning medications and closely monitoring patients.