Leukemia - is cancer of the blood or
blood-forming organs. Each year roughly 30 000 people in
the US find out that they have leukemia. Approximately
2000 of these are children. There are different types of
leukemia which is classified by the type of blood cell affected
and by the development cycle. Lymphocytic leukemia is
named after the leukemia that affects lymphoid cells while
myelogenous luekemia affects myeloid cells. Both types of
cells are types of white blood cells.
Symptoms: White blood cells are the
cells that help the body fight infection. Effects of
leukemia therefore can be manifested in higher number of
infections. The most common symptoms are flu-like
symptoms, fever, chills, weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite,
weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, easy bruising, swollen (or
bleeding) gums, bone/joint pain and as indicated before a
general increase in infections. There may also be a
condition called petechiae which is categorized by the presence
of tiny red spots under the skin.
Diagnosis: Blood tests usually determine
a higher number of white blood cells in the blood. After
determining that the patient has leukemia, the doctor will need
to determine the type of cancer by ordering additional tests.
These tests include removal of bone marrow and spinal fluid for
examination.
Treatment: Leukemia is a
complicated cancer to treat and will vary depending on the
individual. Most leukemia patients undergo chemotherapy.
Some may require surgery to remove the spleen. In some
cases radiation therapy is also given. The exact treatment
will vary with each case.
