Dr. Talia Zahra, MD

About Dr. Talia Zahra, MD

Dr. Talia Zahra, MD is a Hematology-Oncology physician dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute in Miami, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I specialize 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. I am committed to providing compassionate care to all ages and am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (786) 345-7208 to schedule an appointment.

As a hematologist-oncologist at Miami Cancer Institute, I focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of blood disorders and malignancies originating in blood-forming tissues. My expertise encompasses conditions such as Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, leukemias, and multiple myeloma, and I am also proficient in managing solid tumors. My approach is deeply rooted in evidence-based practice, reflected in my published research and presentations at medical conferences. I am Board Certified in Hematology, Internal Medicine, and Medical Oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and earned my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. Miami Cancer Institute's multidisciplinary approach, with teams of experts and cutting-edge technology, allows for personalized treatment plans. Dr. Talia Zahra offers consultations in Spanish.

Hemato-Oncologic Conditions Addressed

Dr. Talia Zahra addresses a wide range of Hemato-oncologic health concerns, including:

• Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia: Acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML) is a form of leukemia where the bone marrow makes too many immature white blood cells, impairing normal blood cell function.
• Benign Neoplasm of Brain: A benign brain tumor is a non-cancerous growth in the brain.
• Vitamin B Deficiency: Vitamin B deficiencies can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue and weakness.
• Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the white blood cells.
• Non-Hodgkin: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
• Upper Digestive Tract Cancer: Upper digestive tract cancer affects the organs in your upper digestive system.
• Blood Disorders in Pregnancy: Blood disorders, such as anemia or clotting problems, can occur during pregnancy and require specialized care.
• Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia: CMML is a slow-growing blood cancer where too many immature white blood cells build up in the blood and bone marrow.
• Benign Lung Neoplasms: Benign lung tumors are non-cancerous growths in the lungs.
• Meningiomas: Meningiomas are tumors that grow from the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Primary Hypercoagulable State: With a primary hypercoagulable state, your blood is more prone to forming clots spontaneously, which can cause serious health complications.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: CLL is a slow-growing blood cancer affecting white blood cells called lymphocytes.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Talia Zahra 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. Talia Zahra offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Bone Marrow Biopsy: To evaluate blood cell production and detect certain diseases, a bone marrow biopsy examines the marrow's cellular components.
• Plasmapheresis: Plasmapheresis is a procedure that filters harmful substances from your blood, like antibodies or proteins causing problems.
• Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from around your lungs.
• External Beam Radiotherapy: This treatment delivers precisely targeted radiation to kill cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
• Brachytherapy: In brachytherapy, a high dose of radiation is delivered to the cancer from a source inside the body, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Leukemia Diagnostic Evaluations: These evaluations use various methods to identify leukemia, including blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and genetic analyses.
• Sentinel Node Biopsy: A sentinel node biopsy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to determine whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Talia Zahra. 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. Talia Zahra:

What is a Hematologist/Oncologist?

A hematologist/oncologist is a doctor specializing in both the study and treatment of blood disorders and cancers. They diagnose and treat various blood cancers, solid tumors, and non-cancerous blood conditions. Their expertise lies in the complex interplay of these two fields.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Talia Zahra?

Your first visit with Dr. Zahra will be a comprehensive consultation, including a review of your medical history, physical exam, and a detailed discussion of diagnosis and potential treatment options. Please bring all prior medical records, imaging reports, and pathology slides to ensure a thorough evaluation.

Does Dr. Talia Zahra accept my insurance?

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

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. Zahra's team works closely with registered dietitians to help manage your diet and any related symptoms.

How does Dr. Talia Zahra help manage treatment side effects?

Dr. Zahra prioritizes managing treatment side effects proactively. This includes prescribing medications for nausea and pain, providing nutritional support, closely monitoring blood counts, and offering resources to help patients cope with fatigue and other issues.

How is immunotherapy different from chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy directly targets and kills cancer cells, while immunotherapy is a newer approach that leverages the body's own immune system to identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively. This often results in fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy.

What is palliative care and how is it different from hospice?

Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and stress from serious illness at any stage of treatment. Hospice is a type of palliative care specifically for people nearing the end of life.

What is Dr. Talia Zahra's role in treating breast cancer?

As a medical oncologist, Dr. Zahra manages the systemic treatment for breast cancer, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies. These are often used in combination with surgery and radiation to treat the entire body.