Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It’s characterized by the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which can interfere with the body’s ability to fight infection, carry oxygen, and clot blood properly.
Different types of Leukemia exist, they are classified by how quickly the disease progresses and the types of cells affected. The different types include Acute myeloid (or myelogenous) leukemia (AML), AML affects myeloid cells, which are responsible for producing red blood cells, platelets, and certain types of white blood cells. It can occur in both children and adults. AML progresses quickly and needs prompt treatment. Chronic myeloid (or myelogenous) leukemia (CML), CML affects myeloid cells and is characterized by the presence of an abnormal chromosome known as the Philadelphia chromosome. It commonly occurs in adults. CML progresses more slowly than acute types of leukemia and has different phases; chronic, accelerated, and blast crisis. Acute lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia (ALL), This type of leukemia primarily affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, it is more common in children, but can also occur in adults. ALL progresses rapidly and requires immediate treatment. or Chronic lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia (CLL), CLL affects lymphocytes and usually progresses slowly. It is more common in older adults. In the early stages, CLL may not require immediate treatment, and patients may be monitored through regular check-ups. Each type of Leukemia has its characteristics, treatment approaches, and prognoses. Patients must work closely with their healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their specific diagnosis and individual circumstances. The symptoms of leukemia can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Some common symptoms may include fatigue and weakness, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, unexplained weight loss, bone pain or tenderness, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, shortness of breath, and pale skin. To diagnose leukemia, doctors may perform several tests such as blood tests, to evaluate the number and appearance of different blood cells. In bone marrow biopsy, a small sample of bone marrow is taken from the hipbone or sternum to examine the cells for signs of leukemia. Imaging tests, X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to check for enlarged organs or other abnormalities. Cytogenetic analysis is a test that examines the chromosomes in leukemia cells to identify specific genetic changes. The choice of treatment options depends on factors such as the type and stage of leukemia, as well as the patient's overall health. Some common treatments include Chemotherapy, which is the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given orally, through injections, or intravenously. Chemotherapy is often the main treatment for leukemia and may be combined with other therapies. Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. It is typically used in specific cases, such as when leukemia cells have spread to the brain or other areas. Immunotherapy helps to strengthen the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, it can involve the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy, or other types of immune-based treatments. There are also Stem cell transplants, also known as bone marrow transplants, this procedure involves replacing damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It can be an option for some patients with certain types of leukemia.
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Leukemia is a disease of the blood characterized by the overproduction of leukocytes. Common types include chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL).
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