Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells, which are created in bone marrow. There are four types of leukemia; two types are categorized as acute because they spread quickly and two types are of the chronic variety, meaning they develop and progress slowly. St. Luke's treats adult leukemia.
The acute leukemias are acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). With these types of leukemia, cancerous cells replace normal:
- White blood cells that fight infections
- Red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body
- Platelets that help blood clot
When these cancerous cells replace healthy ones, the body is susceptible to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Anemia
The chronic leukemias are chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). When the cancerous cells replace the healthy blood cells, the body is susceptible to infection.
Causes, Symptoms and Risk Factors
The causes of leukemia are unknown. It does affect both sexes and all ages. People at particular risk:
- Have family history of leukemia
- Have a genetic disorder
- Have been excessively exposed to radiation or toxic chemicals
- Smoke
Adult acute leukemia can cause:
- Infections
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Tiredness
- Anemia
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Appearance of spots on the skin
- Joint pain
Usually, adult chronic leukemia affects people of middle age or older. This form might not yield symptoms especially in its early stages because the abnormal cells still function. As the disease progresses, it can cause:
- Infections
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
Tests, Procedures and Treatments
A doctor will perform a physical examination, review symptoms with the patient and perform testing for leukemia that can include:
Treatments for adult leukemias include:
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