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Leukemia

Diseases and Conditions Leukemia
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Leukemia, a type of cancer, originates in the body’s blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. This disease disrupts the normal production of blood cells, leading to an excess of immature or abnormal white blood cells. As these abnormal cells accumulate, they suppress the production of healthy blood cells, resulting in symptoms related to low blood cell counts (cytopenias). Leukemia can be acute (rapidly progressing) or chronic (slow-growing), and it affects people of all ages.

Types of Leukemia

Leukemia is classified based on various factors, including clinical features, morphology, immunophenotype, and genetic factors. The major types of leukemia include:

  1. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML):

    • Malignant transformation and uncontrolled proliferation of abnormally differentiated myeloid progenitor cells.
    • Common in middle-aged adults.
    • Symptoms: Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, and pain below the left ribcage.
    • Treatment: Targeted therapies and chemotherapy.

  2. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):

    • Most common pediatric cancer but also affects adults.
    • Uncontrolled proliferation of abnormally differentiated lymphocytes.
    • Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes, weakness, easy bruising, and bleeding.
    • Treatment: Chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

  3. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML):

    • Overproduction of mature and immature granulocytes.
    • Common in middle-aged adults.
    • Often asymptomatic initially.
    • Treatment: Targeted therapies.

  4. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL):

    • Progressive accumulation of mature malignant B lymphocytes.
    • Common in older adults.
    • Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes, weakness, fatigue, and easy bruising.
    • Treatment: Watchful waiting, targeted therapies, and chemotherapy.

Causes of Leukemia

The exact cause of leukemia remains unknown

Risk Factors of Leukemia

several risk factors have been identified:

  • Genetic Factors: Mutations in DNA play a significant role.
  • Chromosome Translocation: Activation of oncogenes due to chromosomal changes.
  • Environmental Exposures: Radiation, benzene, pesticides, and chemotherapy.
  • Infections: Some infections may contribute.
  • High Birth Weight: Associated with an increased risk of ALL.
  • Age: Varies with leukemia type (e.g., AML more common in older adults).
  • Gender: Slightly more common in males.
  • Ethnicity: Incidence varies among racial and ethnic groups.

Symptoms of Leukemia

Leukemia symptoms vary but may include:
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin. May feel painless or tender.
2. Bone pain: Aching or discomfort in bones, especially long bones like the arms and legs. Result of abnormal cell accumulation in bone marrow.
3. Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep. Often drenching and unrelated to room temperature.
4. Weakness and Fatigue: Due to reduced red blood cell production (anemia). Feeling tired even after rest.
5. Rapid Weight Loss: Unexplained weight reduction. Associated with decreased appetite.
6. Red Spots on the Skin (Petechiae): Tiny, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots. Caused by bleeding under the skin due to low platelet count.
7. Easy Bleeding and Bruising: Nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts. Bruises appear easily.
8. Fever or Chills: Frequent infections due to compromised immune function.

Preventions of Leukemia

Preventing leukemia is challenging due to its multifactorial nature. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, and seeking medical attention promptly for symptoms are essential.

Diagnosis of Leukemia

  1. Blood Tests:

    • Complete Blood Count (CBC) to assess blood cell levels.
    • Peripheral blood smear to examine cell morphology.

  2. Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy:

    • Direct examination of bone marrow cells.
    • Determines cell type and genetic abnormalities.

  3. Cytogenetic and Molecular Tests:

    • Detect specific genetic mutations.
    • Essential for subtype classification.

  4. Imaging:

    • X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to evaluate organ involvement.

  5. Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap):

    • Checks for leukemia cells in cerebrospinal fluid (if indicated).

Treatment for Leukemia

  1. Chemotherapy:

    • Standard treatment for most leukemias.
    • Kills cancer cells but also affects healthy cells.

  2. Targeted Therapies:

    • Drugs that specifically target leukemia cells.
    • Examples: Imatinib (for CML), rituximab (for CLL).

  3. Immunotherapy:

    • Enhances the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.
    • Monoclonal antibodies (e.g., alemtuzumab).

  4. Stem Cell Transplant (Bone Marrow Transplant):

    • Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
    • Used for high-risk cases or relapsed leukemia.

  5. Radiation Therapy:

    • Localized treatment using high-energy rays.
    • Used for specific cases (e.g., ALL involving the brain).

When to seek medical attention ?

  1. Persistent Symptoms:

    • If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above for an extended period.
    • Don’t ignore unexplained fatigue, weight loss, or unusual bleeding.

  2. Unexplained Bruising or Bleeding:

    • Seek immediate medical attention.
    • Especially if bleeding doesn’t stop or is excessive.

  3. Frequent Infections:

    • Recurrent infections or prolonged fever.
    • Consult a healthcare professional promptly.