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Leukemia
Cancer of blood-forming tissues in body, including bone marrow and lymphatic system.
What is Leukemia?
Leukemia causes production of large amounts of abnormal white blood cells that don't function properly, crowding out healthy blood cells (red cells, platelets). There are acute (fast-growing) and chronic (slow-growing) types.
Systemic Symptoms
- Persistent fatigue, weakness, and pale skin (due to anemia).
- Fever, chills, or frequent and severe infections.
- Easy bruising or bleeding (gums, nose).
- Swollen lymph nodes (painless), enlarged liver or spleen.
- Bone pain or tenderness.
- Excessive night sweats.
Blood Treatments
Treatment depends on leukemia type (myeloid vs lymphoid, acute vs chronic) and age.
Chemotherapy (Induction/Consolidation)
Main treatment, using potent drugs to kill leukemia cells.
Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant
Replacing diseased marrow with healthy cells from a donor.
Fact
1stMost common cancer in children
65%Avg 5-year survival (varies greatly)