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Leukemia

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

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system. The bone marrow is responsible for producing blood cells, including white blood cells, which are vital for fighting infections. Leukemia occurs when the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells that do not function properly. These abnormal cells can crowd out the normal cells in the bone marrow, leading to a shortage of healthy blood cells.

Types of Leukemia

There are several types of leukemia, including:

  1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): This is the most common type of leukemia in children and young adults.
  2. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): This type of leukemia is more common in adults and is often associated with a poor prognosis.
  3. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): This type of leukemia is more common in adults and is often characterized by a slow-growing disease.
  4. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): This type of leukemia is often associated with a genetic mutation called the Philadelphia chromosome.

Causes of Leukemia

The exact cause of leukemia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors for developing leukemia include:

  1. Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals.
  2. Family history of leukemia.
  3. Genetic mutations.
  4. Age (most common in children and older adults).

Risk Factors of Leukemia

Certain individuals may be more at risk of developing leukemia due to:

  1. Family history of the disease.
  2. Genetic mutations.
  3. Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals.
  4. Age (most common in children and older adults).

Symptoms of Leukemia

Common symptoms of leukemia include:
1. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy. Feeling weak even after adequate rest.
2. Frequent infections: Increased susceptibility to infections. Recurring infections that are difficult to treat.
3. Fever and Chills: Unexplained fevers. Chills that occur without any apparent reason.
4. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swelling in lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin. Lymph nodes may feel tender or firm.
5. Easy bruising and bleeding: Bruising easily, even from minor bumps. Frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums. Prolonged bleeding from cuts.
6. Petechiae: Small red or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin.
7. Bone and Joint Pain: Pain or tenderness in bones and joints. Discomfort that may be persistent or intermittent.
8. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss without changes in diet or exercise. Loss of appetite.
9. Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during the night. Waking up drenched in sweat.
10. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Feeling breathless even with minimal exertion.
11. Pale skin: Paleness or a noticeable change in skin color. Anemia-related symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness.
12. Swollen Spleen or Liver: Discomfort or fullness under the ribs on the left side (swollen spleen). Swelling or pain in the upper abdomen (swollen liver).
13. Frequent Nosebleeds: Nosebleeds that occur more often than usual. Bleeding that is difficult to stop.
14. General Malaise: A general feeling of being unwell. Overall discomfort or uneasiness.

Preventions of Leukemia

There is no known way to prevent leukemia, but early detection and treatment can improve outcomes.

Diagnosis of Leukemia

Diagnosis of leukemia typically involves a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests, including:

  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  2. Bone marrow biopsy
  3. Imaging studies (e.g., CT scans, MRI scans)
  4. Blood tests (e.g., tumor markers).

Treatment for Leukemia

Treatment for leukemia typically involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or bone marrow transplantation.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience any symptoms of leukemia or have concerns about your risk factors, seek medical attention promptly.

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