Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood-forming tissues. It develops when abnormal white blood cells multiply uncontrollably, crowding out normal blood cells and impairing the body’s ability to fight infections, transport oxygen, and control bleeding. This condition can be acute (fast-growing) or chronic (slow-growing) and affects people of all ages.
Leukemia originates in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. The abnormal cells do not function properly and accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to serious health complications. Since the disease affects the production of healthy blood cells, it weakens the immune system and can lead to anemia, infections, and excessive bleeding.
Cancer of blood and bone marrow – Affects the production of white blood cells.
Acute or chronic forms – Acute leukemia progresses rapidly, while chronic leukemia develops over time.
Affects all ages – Some types are more common in children, while others occur mostly in adults.
Impairs immune function – Leads to infections, anemia, and uncontrolled bleeding.
Multiple types – Classified based on the type of white blood cell affected and the progression speed.
The exact cause of leukemia is unknown, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Genetic mutations – Chromosomal abnormalities, such as the Philadelphia chromosome in CML.
Radiation exposure – High doses of radiation from medical treatments or environmental exposure.
Chemical exposure – Exposure to benzene and other industrial chemicals.
Smoking – Increases the risk of AML.
Previous cancer treatments – Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers can increase leukemia risk.
Family history – Having close relatives with leukemia may raise the risk.
Weakened immune system – Conditions like HIV/AIDS and autoimmune diseases can contribute to leukemia development.
Leukemia symptoms vary depending on the type and progression of the disease. Common signs include:
Fatigue and weakness – Due to low red blood cell counts.
Frequent infections – Resulting from low white blood cell function.
Unexplained weight loss – A common sign of advanced leukemia.
Easy bruising and bleeding – Caused by reduced platelet count.
Fever and night sweats – Indicators of immune system dysfunction.
Bone pain – Due to overcrowding of cancerous cells in the bone marrow.
Swollen lymph nodes or spleen – A result of excessive white blood cell production.
Leukemia is classified into four main types, based on whether it affects lymphoid or myeloid cells and whether it is acute or chronic.
Most common in children but can also affect adults.
Starts in immature lymphocytes (white blood cells).
Rapidly progresses and requires immediate treatment.
Symptoms include fever, fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising.
Common in older adults but can occur at any age.
Affects myeloid cells, leading to the production of abnormal white blood cells.
Symptoms include fever, shortness of breath, pale skin, and frequent infections.
Requires aggressive treatment, often including chemotherapy and stem cell transplants.
Most common in older adults and progresses slowly.
Affects B-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.
Often asymptomatic in the early stages, but later symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and weight loss.
May not require immediate treatment, depending on progression.
Typically affects adults and progresses slowly.
Caused by a genetic mutation known as the Philadelphia chromosome.
Symptoms include night sweats, fever, bone pain, and an enlarged spleen.
Targeted therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, are highly effective in managing CML.
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Common diagnostic methods include:
Blood tests – A complete blood count (CBC) reveals abnormal white blood cell levels.
Bone marrow biopsy – Extracts a sample from the bone marrow to detect cancerous cells.
Genetic testing – Identifies chromosomal abnormalities associated with leukemia.
Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, X-ray) – Detects organ enlargement or tumors.
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) – Checks for leukemia cells in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Leukemia treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:
Uses powerful drugs to kill cancerous cells.
The primary treatment for ALL and AML.
Can be administered orally or intravenously.
Uses drugs that specifically attack leukemia cells with genetic mutations.
Effective for CML and some cases of ALL.
Includes medications like imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib.
High-energy radiation targets leukemia cells in the bone marrow or brain.
Often used to prepare for a bone marrow transplant.
Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
Used for high-risk or relapsed leukemia cases.
Boosts the immune system to fight leukemia cells.
CAR-T cell therapy is a breakthrough treatment for certain leukemia types.
The survival rate for leukemia depends on the type, stage at diagnosis, and treatment response.
ALL – 90% survival rate in children, lower in adults.
AML – 25-40% survival rate in adults.
CLL – 85% five-year survival rate.
CML – Over 90% five-year survival rate with targeted therapy.
Early detection and advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for leukemia patients.
While leukemia cannot always be prevented, certain measures can lower risk.
Avoid smoking – Reduces the risk of AML.
Minimize chemical exposure – Use protective gear in industrial environments.
Maintain a healthy diet and weight – Supports overall immune function.
Manage chronic conditions – Control autoimmune diseases and infections.
Limit radiation exposure – Only undergo necessary imaging procedures.
Managing leukemia involves lifestyle changes and ongoing medical care.
Regular follow-ups – Essential for monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Healthy diet – Supports immune function and recovery.
Exercise – Light physical activity improves well-being.
Emotional support – Counseling and support groups help patients cope.
Avoid infections – Frequent handwashing and vaccinations reduce risks.