Dr. Malcolm Leslie Brigden – Oncologist / Hematologist | Kamloops, BC

Dr. Malcolm Leslie Brigden 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 Kamloops, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive blood disorder treatment. His practice is rooted in the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive care aligned with provincial regulations and best practices. Dr. Brigden addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

He graduated with a MD CM from McGill University in 1971 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). His credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in blood disorder care. These qualifications enable him to employ the latest diagnostic tools and treatment modalities in his practice.

Driven by a patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Brigden is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a multidisciplinary setting. He values clear communication, patient and family support, and the integration of emerging research to enhance treatment options. Fluent in English and French, he strives to serve a diverse patient community in Kamloops, ensuring accessible and hopeful hematology services tailored to each individual's needs.

Dr. Malcolm Brigden has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
• Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia - AIHA): A disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.
• Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) (e.g., Diffuse Large B-Cell, Follicular, Mantle Cell): A diverse group of blood cancers that develop from lymphocytes, with many different subtypes requiring tailored treatments.
• 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.
• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood 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. Malcolm Brigden or your referring physician.

• Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.
• Management of Bleeding Disorders (Hemophilia, Von Willebrand Disease, Platelet Function Disorders): Care for inherited and acquired conditions that affect the body's ability to form blood clots properly, including factor replacement therapies.
• 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.
• Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Brigden provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Brigden 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. Brigden practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the heart of Kamloops, BC, within a hospital department dedicated to comprehensive blood disorder and cancer care. The facility is situated in the vibrant Downtown Kamloops area, close to the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighbourhood. It is easily accessible via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit), with multiple bus routes serving the area. The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry for all patients. Parking options include metered street parking nearby for convenience. The practice is conveniently located near landmarks such as Thompson Rivers University (TRU), making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city and surrounding communities.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Brigden, 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. Brigden 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. Brigden'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. Brigden, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Brigden 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Brigden specialize in?

An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This can include Medical Oncologists who use systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncologists who perform surgery to remove tumors. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands; this includes benign conditions like anemia and bleeding disorders, as well as malignant conditions (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Brigden has expertise in hematology, focusing on a wide range of blood disorders including anemias, clotting issues, and blood cancers.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Brigden help manage them?

Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Brigden and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.

How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?

[IF PROVIDER IS PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST:] As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Brigden specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support. [ELSE:] Treatment for children with cancer or blood disorders is highly specialized and managed by Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists. They use protocols tailored to children, considering long-term effects on growth and development.

What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Brigden?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Brigden 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.

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. Brigden 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 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. Brigden, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

311 Columbia St, BC Cancer agency-Kamloops cancer clinic
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1

Phone: (250) 314-2734

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Brigden 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/348477/Brigden%2CMalcolm