The diagnosis of leukemia, is undoubtedly a harrowing experience. Blood cancer, as leukemia can be simplistically called, sounds threatening and anxiety-inducing. However, it is important not to give in to panic after receiving the diagnosis, but to focus on understanding the disease and the treatment options available. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of leukemia, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
What is leukemia?
Leukemia, also known as leukemia, is a blood cancer characterized by the uncontrolled multiplication of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow. In a healthy body, the bone marrow produces different types of blood cells:
- Erythrocytes (red blood cells) – responsible for transporting oxygen.
- Leukocytes (white blood cells) – which fight infections.
- Thrombocytes (platelets) – responsible for blood clotting.
In leukemia, the bone marrow produces excessive numbers of immature, non-functional white blood cells called blasts. The blasts crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to anemia, increased susceptibility to infection and clotting problems.
Leukemia types
There are many types of leukemia, which are classified on the basis of:
- Disease progression rates:
- Acute leukemia – is characterized by a rapid course and sudden onset of symptoms.
- Chronic leukemia – develops slowly, and symptoms may be initially of little or no intensity.
- The type of cells affected:
- Lymphoblastic leukemia – a cancer of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell).
- Myeloid leukemia – cancer of myeloid cells (precursors of various types of blood cells).
The most common types of leukemia are:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) – is most common in children.
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) – occurs in both children and adults.
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) – most often occurs in the elderly.
- Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) – occurs mainly in adults.
Causes of leukemia
The exact causes of leukemia are not fully known. However, it is known that various factors may contribute to the development of the disease, such as:
- Genetic factors: certain genetic mutations increase the risk of developing leukemia.
- Exposure to ionizing radiation: x-rays, radiation therapy.
- Contact with chemicals: benzene, some pesticides.
- Smoking.
- Some viral infections: Epstein-Barr virus, HTLV-1 virus.
It is important to remember that the presence of these factors does not automatically mean that you will develop leukemia. Most people exposed to these factors will never get sick.
Symptoms of leukemia
The symptoms of leukemia can be varied and depend on the type of disease and its severity. The most common symptoms include:
- General weakness and fatigue.
- Pale skin.
- Shortness of breath.
- Frequent infections.
- Fever.
- Weight loss.
- Lymph node enlargement.
- Enlargement of the spleen and liver.
- Bleeding from the nose and gums.
- Easy bruising.
- Bone and joint pain.
If the above symptoms occur, consult your doctor.
Leukemia diagnosis
Leukemia diagnosis includes a number of tests, such as:
- Blood test: blood count with smear, biochemical blood test.
- Bone marrow examination: collection and microscopic examination of a bone marrow sample.
- Lymph node biopsy: collection and microscopic examination of a lymph node sample.
- Genetic testing: identification of specific genetic mutations.
- Imaging studies: abdominal ultrasound, chest X-ray, CT scan.
Leukemia treatment
Leukemia treatment depends on many factors, such as:
- Type of leukemia.
- Disease stage.
- Age and health of the patient.
The main treatments for leukemia include:
- Chemotherapy: administration of anticancer drugs that destroy leukemia cells.
- Radiation therapy: ir radiation of the affected area with ionizing radiation.
- Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation: injection of healthy hematopoietic cells from a donor.
- Targeted therapy: the use of drugs that block specific mechanisms of leukemia development.
- Immunotherapy: stimulating the immune system to fight leukemia cells.
Prognosis in leukemia
Prognosis in leukemia depends on many factors, such as:
- Type of leukemia.
- Disease stage.
- Age and health of the patient.
- Response to treatment.
For pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia, modern treatments allow more than 80% of patients to be cured. Prognosis in other types of leukemia is more variable.
It is important to remember that the prognosis of leukemia is individual for each patient. The treating physician is the best source of information on treatment prospects and chances of recovery.
Living with leukemia
A leukemia diagnosis is a difficult experience that affects all aspects of a patient’s and his family’s life. It is important to remember that leukemia is a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment and medical care.
Support from loved ones, a positive attitude and active participation in the treatment process are of great importance in coping with the disease. There are many organizations and foundations that offer support to leukemia patients and their families. It is worth taking advantage of their help.
Summary
A leukemia diagnosis is a major challenge, but thanks to medical advances, the chances of a cure or long-term remission are improving. It is important to focus on understanding the disease and the treatment options available after receiving a diagnosis. Cooperation with the treating physician, a positive attitude and support from loved ones are crucial in the fight against leukemia.
Important:
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have serious eye health problems, you should contact an ophthalmologist immediately.
