Disease
Leukemia
Overview of Leukemia
Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It leads to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which disrupt normal blood function and immunity. There are several types of leukemia, and its progression can be either acute (fast-growing) or chronic (slow-growing). Early detection and timely treatment significantly improve outcomes.
Types of Leukemia
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Rapidly growing cancer affecting myeloid cells, more common in adults.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Fast-growing leukemia mostly seen in children.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Slow-progressing cancer of the myeloid cells, often detected in later stages.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Affects lymphocytes, common in older adults and progresses gradually.
- Hairy Cell Leukemia: A rare subtype of CLL, where cells appear ‘hairy’ under the microscope.
- Feline Leukemia: A contagious viral disease affecting cats, not transmissible to humans.
Symptoms of Leukemia
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Frequent or severe infections
- Unexplained weight loss
- Easy bruising or bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeds)
- Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
- Recurrent fevers or chills
- Bone or joint pain
- Pale or blotchy skin (may include leukemia rash)
- Shortness of breath
- Night sweats
Causes of Leukemia
- Genetic mutations in blood cell DNA
- Radiation exposure
- Prolonged exposure to chemicals like benzene
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Certain genetic disorders (e.g., Down syndrome)
- Smoking (increases risk of AML)
- Family history of leukemia
Complications in Leukemia
- Severe infections due to low immunity
- Anemia from low red blood cell count
- Bleeding disorders due to low platelets
- Spread to organs like liver, spleen, brain
- Organ damage due to treatment
- Secondary cancers after treatment
- Psychological distress and fatigue
Risk Factors of Leukemia
- Age: More common in adults above 55 (except ALL in children)
- Gender: Males have slightly higher risk
- Family history of leukemia
- Smoking habits
- Prior cancer treatment
- Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals
- Certain genetic syndromes
Preventions of Leukemia
- Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals
- Quit smoking
- Protect yourself from radiation
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle
- Regular medical checkups, especially with a family history
- Limit exposure to benzene (found in gasoline and cigarette smoke)
- Stay updated on vaccines and avoid infections
Diagnosis of Leukemia
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Detects abnormal blood cells
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: Confirms the presence of leukemia cells
- Imaging Tests: MRI, CT scan to check spread
- Genetic Testing: Identifies specific mutations
- Flow Cytometry: Helps classify leukemia type
- Lumbar Puncture: Determines spread to spinal fluid
Treatments of Leukemia
- Chemotherapy: First-line treatment for most leukemias
- Targeted Therapy: Blocks specific genes/proteins driving leukemia
- Radiation Therapy: Used to shrink cancer or prepare for transplant
- Stem Cell Transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer
- CAR T-Cell Therapy: A newer, advanced immunotherapy
- Supportive Care: Blood transfusions, antibiotics, pain management
Prognosis of Leukemia
Depends on leukemia type, stage, age, and response to treatment.
Early-stage and childhood leukemia often have better outcomes.
Chronic types can be managed effectively over time.
Advances in therapy have improved survival rates significantly.
Ongoing follow-up is crucial to monitor relapse or complications.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised treatment plans from top oncologists
- Coordination with best leukemia treatment hospitals in India
- Access to advanced therapies like CAR-T and stem cell transplant
- Medical visa support and travel arrangements for international patients
- Post-treatment rehabilitation and second-opinion consultations
- Constant guidance throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery
- Affordable treatment packages with transparency in cost and care
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What type of leukemia do I have?
- Is this cancer curable in my case?
- What tests are required before starting treatment?
- How long will my treatment take?
- What side effects should I expect?
- Can I continue working or studying during treatment?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of leukemia type and stage
- Guidance on treatment options and expected outcomes
- Emotional support and open communication
- Honest discussion of side effects and survival chances
- Information on latest therapies and clinical trials
- Supportive care recommendations
- Roadmap for recovery and life after treatment