What is Leukemia?

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. It's characterized by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells, which are not able to function properly and can crowd out healthy cells, impairing the body's ability to fight infection and carry oxygen.

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Leukemia?

The symptoms of leukemia can vary depending on the type but often include:

• Fever or chills

• Persistent fatigue, weakness

• Frequent or severe infections

• Losing weight without trying

• Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver or spleen

• Easy bleeding or bruising

• Recurrent nosebleeds

• Tiny red spots in your skin (petechiae)

• Excessive sweating, especially at night

• Bone pain or tenderness

 

Can We Prevent Leukemia?

Most types of leukemia cannot be prevented since the exact causes are often unknown. However, reducing exposure to risk factors such as smoking, certain chemicals (like benzene), and radiation may lower the risk.

 

How Do We Diagnose Leukemia?

Diagnosis of leukemia typically involves a combination of tests, including:

• Physical exams to check for swollen lymph nodes, spleen, or liver.

• Blood tests that show abnormal levels or types of white blood cells.

• Bone marrow tests to look for leukemia cells in the bone marrow.

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Leukemia?

Treatment for leukemia can vary greatly depending on the type of leukemia, age, overall health, and whether leukemia has spread to other parts of the body. Options may include:

• Chemotherapy: The main form of treatment for leukemia, using drugs to kill leukemia cells.

• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to damage leukemia cells and inhibit their growth.

• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific elements that are unique to leukemia cells.

• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack leukemia cells.

• Stem cell transplant: Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow.

Each patient's treatment plan is personalized to provide the best outcomes based on their specific situation.