About
Dr. Leslie Nicole Zypchen 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 within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Zypchen addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes. Her approach emphasizes patient-centered care, fostering hope and collaboration throughout the treatment journey, primarily serving adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders or cancers, with access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities integral to her practice.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1997 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Zypchen holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development. Her training enables her to provide the most current and effective therapies for her patients, integrating evidence-based medicine into her practice.
Dedicated to delivering multidisciplinary care, Dr. Zypchen believes in combining clinical expertise with compassionate support for her patients and their families. She is committed to advancing research in hematology and blood cancers, ensuring access to innovative treatments when appropriate. Fluent in English, she strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and supported. Her goal is to offer hope and personalized care tailored to each individual's needs within the vibrant Vancouver community.
Dr. Leslie Zypchen has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other complications.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
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. Leslie Zypchen or your referring physician.
- Management of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): Treatment strategies to control blood counts, manage symptoms, and prevent complications associated with these chronic bone marrow disorders.
- 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.
- Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Autologous & Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Consultation, Coordination & Post-Transplant Care (as part of a transplant team or referral network): Evaluating eligibility for, coordinating referrals to, and providing follow-up care for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
- Diagnosis & Management of Multiple Myeloma, Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia & Other Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Specialized care for cancers arising from plasma cells, utilizing novel agents, chemotherapy, and supportive care, including stem cell transplant coordination.
- Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
- Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Zypchen provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Zypchen 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. Zypchen practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Granville Island, making it accessible and central for patients across Vancouver. Public transit options are excellent, with TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront) all providing easy access. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all patients. Paid parking options are close by for those arriving by car, facilitating a smooth visit for every patient seeking expert blood disorder care.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Zypchen, 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. Zypchen 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. Zypchen'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. Zypchen, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Zypchen 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.
- Does a Hematologist only treat blood cancers?
- No, Hematologists treat a wide range of blood disorders, not just cancers. This includes benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as various types of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), clotting disorders (thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), and issues with white blood cells (like neutropenia) or platelets (like ITP). Dr. Zypchen, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
- Does Dr. Zypchen 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. Zypchen 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 ask her about available clinical trials at her institution or through collaborative research networks to explore potential options.
- What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Zypchen?
- Supportive care is a crucial part of treatment, aiming to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and address emotional and practical needs. This can include effective pain and symptom management, nutritional support and counseling, psychological support (counseling, therapy), social work services for practical and emotional support, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. Zypchen and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect patients with these valuable resources.
10 Floor-2775 Laurel St, Vancouver General Hospital, Division of Hematology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9
Phone: (604) 875-4863 | Fax: (604) 675-3883
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Zypchen 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/325935/Zypchen%2CLeslie