Leukemia Cancer: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatment

Being told you have leukemia cancer can feel like a lot to take in for both the person diagnosed and their family and friends alike. It's important to grasp the ins and outs of this illness – understanding its signs and symptoms and what causes it in the first place and the various treatment options available is key to navigating through the difficulties it brings. Leukemia is a form of cancer that impacts the blood and bone marrow disrupting the body's ability to produce blood cells. Even though receiving news can be overwhelming advancements, medical research constantly enhances outcomes for numerous patients.

If you or someone you love is facing a leukemia diagnosis, it’s essential to seek expert medical care. Call now at +91 9667064100 for guidance and support.

What is Leukemia Cancer?

Leukemia is a form of cancer that begins in the blood-producing organs such as the bone marrow and lymphatic system and does not usually develop tumors, like many other cancers do It results in an excessive production of irregular white blood cells that displaces normal red and white blood cells causing a range of health issues.
 

Symptoms of Leukemia

Symptoms of leukemia Cancer can differ based on the type and stage of the illness. Here are some typical indicators:

• Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time after resting is known as fatigue.

• Frequent Infections: Occurring infections can occur when the body's defense system weakens and becomes vulnerable to illnesses frequently.

• Easy Bruising or Bleeding: Bruising easily or experiencing bleeding can occur from injuries and may lead to noticeable bruises as well, such as frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss without an explanation or changes in diet or exercise habits.

• Fever or Chills: Experiencing fever or chills daily or having frequent night sweats are common symptoms to watch out for.

• Bone or Joint Pain: Persistent discomfort or sensitivity in bones or joints can indicate bone or joint pain.

• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swollen lymph nodes refer to painless lymph nodes commonly found in areas such as the neck sides of groin regions.

• Enlarged Liver or Spleen: Having a liver or spleens can cause aches or a sense of being bloated, in the stomach area.

• Shortness of Breath: Having trouble catching your breath? It can be tough to breathe when you're moving around or being active.

   

Causes of Leukemia

The exact cause of leukemia is not fully understood, but several factors may increase the risk, including:

• Genetic Mutations: Changes, in the makeup of blood cells, could result in leukemia.

• Radiation Exposure: Exposure to radiation at levels—, like those encountered during cancer therapy or nuclear incidents—can increase the likelihood of health risks.

• Chemical Exposure: Prolonged contact with substances such as benzene, in workplaces can lead to leukemia according to research findings.

• Smoking: Certain forms of leukemia are linked to smoking tobacco use.

• Family History: A family history of leukemia raises the chances of inheriting the condition.

• Previous Cancer Treatments: Past treatments for cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation used for types of cancer could potentially heighten the likelihood of developing leukemia in the future.
   

Types of Leukemia

Leukemia is classified based on how quickly it progresses and which type of blood cells are affected. The main types include:

• Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is frequently seen in children. Advances quickly necessitate immediate treatment.

• Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML): Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a type of leukemia that grows rapidly and can impact individuals of all ages, including adults and children.

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is commonly seen in adults. Tends to advance at a slower pace compared to acute variations of the disease.

• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML): Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (also known as CML) is a type of leukemia that tends to progress slowly and is commonly seen in adults.
   

Risk Factors for Leukemia

Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing certain types of leukemia:

1. Previous Cancer Treatment: Individuals who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy for other cancers may have a higher risk of developing leukemia.
  
2. Genetic Disorders: Certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, are linked to a higher risk of leukemia due to underlying genetic abnormalities.

3. Chemical Exposure: Exposure to chemicals like benzene, commonly found in gasoline and used in the chemical industry, is associated with an increased risk of some types of leukemia.

4. Smoking: Smoking cigarettes is known to raise the risk of developing acute myelogenous leukemia (AML).

5. Family History: A family history of leukemia may increase an individual's risk of developing the disease.

It's important to note that while these risk factors can increase the chances of developing leukemia, many people with these factors never develop the disease. Similarly, some individuals diagnosed with leukemia may have none of these risk factors.

Diagnosis

Doctors may detect chronic leukemia during a routine blood test before any symptoms appear. If this occurs, or if you show signs or symptoms of leukemia, you may undergo the following diagnostic tests:

1. Physical Exam: The doctor will check for physical signs of leukemia, such as pale skin due to anemia, swollen lymph nodes, or an enlarged liver and spleen.

2. Blood Tests: A blood sample will be analyzed to detect abnormal levels of red or white blood cells or platelets, which may indicate leukemia. In some cases, leukemia cells may also be found in the blood, though certain types of leukemia may keep these cells confined to the bone marrow.

3. Bone Marrow Test: Your doctor may suggest a procedure to extract a sample of bone marrow from the hip bone using a long, thin needle. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis to detect leukemia cells. Further specialized tests can identify specific characteristics of the leukemia cells, which helps in determining the best treatment options.

Treatment Options

Leukemia treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment approaches include:

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often the first line of treatment for leukemia as it entails the use of medications to target and destroy cancer cells in the body.

• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy involves using high-energy radiation to pinpoint and eliminate cancer cells, in regions or alleviate discomfort caused by enlarged organs.

• Targeted Therapy: Therapies that are tailored to target weaknesses in cancer cells while sparing healthy cells from harm are known as targeted therapy.

• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's natural defense system to recognize and combat cancer cells.

• Stem Cell Transplant: A stem cell transplant involves the infusion of stem cells into the patient's body to replace the damaged bone marrow and enable the production of healthy blood cells.

• Clinical Trials: In trials, some individuals might be able to try out new experimental treatments especially when standard therapies are not working effectively.

Meet Our Oncology Team at Felix Hospital

Felix Hospitals is the best cancer hospital for leukemia in Noida with a top-rated oncology team led by Dr. Chinmayee Agrawal and Dr. Mukta Baxi. Our expert oncologists are dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans, advanced cancer therapies, and compassionate care to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients battling various forms of cancer. With cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach, Felix Hospital strives to deliver world-class cancer care to all its patients.

For any leukemia-related concerns, contact Felix Hospital today at +91 9667064100.

Conclusion

Leukemia is a condition that requires attention and can be quite complex. however, with the right care and treatment in place many individuals can lead fulfilling and active lifestyles confidently knowing they are well-informed about symptoms causes, and treatment choices available, to them which enables patients and their loved ones to feel more empowered in making decisions regarding their health care needs Felix Hospital, leading as the best cancer hospital, stands ready to offer top-notch care and assistance throughout the entire process. 

 

FAQs

1. What are the chances of survival for someone with leukemia?  

According to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program, the five-year relative survival rate for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is 71.3%. For acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the five-year relative survival rate is 31.7%. 
Nearly 65 out of 100 people (or about 65%) will survive leukemia for five years or more after diagnosis. For individuals aged 40 and older, around 20 out of 100 (or about 20%) will survive for five years or more. Age plays a significant role in how well leukemia responds to treatment.

2. Is it possible to avoid getting leukemia? 
 
One cannot completely avoid leukemia; however, reducing exposure to risk factors such as smoking and hazardous substances could potentially decrease the likelihood of developing the disease.

3. What are the initial symptoms of leukemia?  

Signs that you may notice in the beginning are feeling tired, getting sick frequently, bruising easily and losing weight without a reason.

4. How do doctors determine if someone has leukemia?
  
The diagnosis of leukemia usually involves blood tests and bone marrow biopsy well as imaging studies.

5. What sets chronic leukemia apart from each other?  

Acute leukemia advances swiftly. Necessitates prompt treatment; whereas chronic leukemia advances at a slower pace and may not require immediate intervention.

6. Is there any way to treat leukemia?  

Patients may consider trying treatments such as acupuncture or dietary adjustments; however, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider in conjunction with standard medical treatments.

7. How does a stem cell transplant contribute to the treatment of leukemia?  

Stem cell transplants involve the replacement of bone marrow with healthy cells that have the potential to either cure the ailment or result in a prolonged period of recovery.

8. How does leukemia impact children in a way that differs from its effects on adults?  

Children frequently experience forms of leukemia such as ALL and necessitate customized treatment strategies suited to their growing bodies.

9. Can leukemia come back after undergoing treatment?  

Following treatment, for leukemia, it is important to monitor the condition and maintain regular follow-up care to effectively manage the disease.

10. How can I help someone I care about who has leukemia?  

Provide assistance and aid, with everyday activities while staying updated on their well-being and available treatment choices to offer optimal care.