Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of blood-forming tissues, including bone marrow and the lymphatic system. It results in the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.
Understanding Leukemia
Leukemia is classified by how quickly it progresses (acute or chronic) and the type of blood cell affected (lymphocytic or myelogenous). The four main types are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
Common Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent or severe infections
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Bone or joint pain
- Enlarged liver or spleen
How It Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis involves complete blood count, peripheral blood smear, bone marrow biopsy, and flow cytometry. Cytogenetic and molecular testing are essential for classification and treatment planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Leukemia
Is leukemia curable?
Treatment outcomes vary significantly by type and subtype. Some forms, like certain childhood ALL, have high cure rates. CML can often be managed long-term with targeted therapy. Your oncologist can discuss prognosis based on your specific diagnosis.
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