About
Dr. Adrienne Kwong Wan Lee is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre or hospital department in Victoria, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her approach emphasizes patient-centered, hopeful care tailored to each individual's unique needs. Dr. Lee addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions, ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care in a compassionate environment.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2007 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Lee holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in her specialty. Her training and certification ensure she is well-equipped to provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options for her patients.
Dedicated to multidisciplinary care, Dr. Lee combines evidence-based treatment strategies with a compassionate approach to support her patients and their families. She is committed to advancing research in hematology, ensuring access to the latest therapies and clinical trials whenever appropriate. Fluent in English, she actively engages with her patients in Victoria, offering hope and personalized care to those facing complex blood disorders.
Dr. Adrienne Lee has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
- Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
This list provides examples of common conditions treated and is not exhaustive. Cancer and blood disorders are complex, and treatment is highly individualized. For personalized advice, please discuss your specific situation with Dr. Adrienne Lee or your referring physician.
- Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
- Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
- Genetic Counseling & Testing Referrals for Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Assessment of family history and risk factors, and coordination of referrals for genetic counseling and testing for inherited predispositions to cancer (e.g., BRCA).
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) & Other Platelet Disorders Management: Investigating and managing low platelet counts due to immune or other causes.
- Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
- Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
- Diagnosis & Treatment of Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Various Non-Hodgkin Subtypes): Tailored treatment strategies for cancers of the lymphatic system, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted agents, and radiotherapy coordination.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Lee provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Lee or your healthcare team for details relevant to your care.
All medical services and treatments are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.
Dr. Lee practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department situated in the Fairfield West, Rockland neighborhood of Victoria. The facility is conveniently located near the Royal BC Museum, making it accessible for patients from across the region. Public transit options are readily available via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring easy access for those using bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, providing barrier-free entry for patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, offering added convenience for patients and visitors seeking in-person consultations or treatments.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Lee, an Hematologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests (like biopsies, imaging reviews), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation therapy planning and delivery, and management of blood disorders by a licensed Hematologist such as Dr. Lee are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Specific drug coverage for newer therapies can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Medical Services Plan (MSP), Dr. Lee's office, the hospital's patient financial services, or the cancer care navigation services at the treatment facility.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lee, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Lee for assessment or treatment of cancer or significant hematological conditions. This ensures that your primary care provider is involved in your care continuum and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific situation. Cancer care programs often have centralized intake systems that manage referrals to ensure timely access.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Lee?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Lee will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan typically includes a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests to monitor for any signs of recurrence, management of any long-term side effects from treatment, recommendations for healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise), and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing general health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Lee recommends it?
- A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are procedures used to collect and examine bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. Dr. Lee might recommend this test to diagnose or monitor various blood disorders, including leukemias, lymphomas, myeloma, anemias, or infections. The procedure is usually done on the back of the hip bone under local anesthesia. A needle is used to withdraw a small sample of liquid marrow (aspiration) and a small core of bone marrow tissue (biopsy). You may feel some pressure or brief pain.
- What is immunotherapy and how does it work for cancer?
- Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your own immune system fight cancer. It works by boosting or changing how the immune system works so it can find and attack cancer cells more effectively. There are different types of immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Lee may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.
- Does Dr. Lee participate in or offer access to clinical trials?
- Many oncologists and hematologists are involved in clinical research to advance cancer treatment and care for blood disorders, as participation in clinical trials can offer access to new and investigational treatments. Dr. Lee is actively involved in clinical trials and may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can also ask her about any available clinical trials at her institution or through research networks, and she can refer you or provide further information.
1520 Fort St, Pacific Hematology
Victoria, BC V8S 5J2
Phone: (250) 384-7377 | Fax: (250) 384-7372
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lee is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or other specialist is required for most consultations and treatments under the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330775/Lee%2CAdrienne