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Leukemia, also called from Latin leukemia (leucaemia), is a term for a group of malignant neoplasms formed as a result of pathological growth of cells of the hematopoietic system present mainly in the bone marrow and lymph nodes. Traditionally, there are two divisions of leukemias: according to the course (acute and chronic leukemias) and according to the line of origin (lymphatic and myeloid leukemias); thus there is acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
The most common are sharp varieties, with the acute myeloid leukemia most often attacks adults, a acute lymphoblastic – children aged 3-7. It is also the most common cancer in children. Chronic leukemiasas the name suggests, they take a long time to develop; the myeloid variety – several years, and the lymphatic one – even for several years. The latter is characterized by the mildest course. Remember that these are not the only types of leukemia; the lymphocytic leukemias also include lymphocytic leukemia and hairy cell leukemia, and the myeloid leukemia – acute monocytic leukemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia.
The causes of leukemia
Researchers have yet to determine the causes of leukemia. However, factors have been shown that increase the risk of developing this disease. They are mainly:
- genetic disorders (including Down syndrome, Fanconi anemia, immune and hormonal disorders),
- prolonged contact with ionizing radiation or harmful chemicals, especially pesticides,
- smoking tobacco in significant amounts.
Leukemia can also be viral in origin, caused by HTLV-1 or 2. This is then T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Leukemia symptoms
The symptoms of leukemia will differ from one type to another in the later stages of leukemia. However, in its early stages, the symptoms are rather common. They mainly include:
- enlargement of the lymph nodes and spleen,
- loss of appetite
- anemia,
- bone and joint pain,
- bleeding from the nose and gums,
- fever,
- a rash similar to that of shingles.
A serious symptom is also a decrease in immunity, which can result in other, independent diseases that further weaken the body. Chronic myeloid leukemia, however, may not cause any symptoms for up to several years, and the chronic lymphocytic form – even a dozen or so.
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The course of the main types of leukemia
Acute leukemias, both myeloid and lymphoblastic leukemia, are, as the name suggests, characterized by a severe, acute course. If left untreated, the myeloid will lead to death in just a few weeks. A patient with chronic leukemia may survive for up to several years without treatment. The so-called blastic breakthrough, that is, the last stage of the disease, which, if not treated properly, will quickly lead to death. Any prognosis therefore depends on the type of leukemia, but also, of course, on the age and condition of the patient. With early detection, up to 90 percent of acute lymphoblastic leukemia results. patients, while those with acute myeloid disease – more than half.
Treatment of the main types of leukemia
Treatment of acute leukemia is divided into three phases:
- induction phase,
- the consolidation phase,
- post-consolidation phase.
Phase one lasts 4 to 6 weeks and is based on chemotherapy; Its purpose is to eliminate the cancer, so it is in it that the highest doses of drugs are administered. The goal of the second phase is to consolidate the remission; this phase lasts for 3 to 6 months, and during this period, lower doses of drugs are given. Efforts are made to remove the remnants of the disease. In the third phase, leukemia relapses are prevented; the duration of the third phase depends on the patient’s condition, but it always lasts for a longer period.
For women who are at risk, diagnostic tests that show the risk of cancer may be important. They contain tumor markers.
In the case of lymphoblastic leukemia, supportive therapy is also essential, aimed at preventing and treating any side effects, such as anemia or metabolic disorders. Treatment of acute leukemia is often associated with complications. The most common complications are infections and haemorrhages associated with bleeding diathesis and a reduced number of white blood cells, the so-called leukocytes. Be aware of the common complication of tumor lysis syndrome, which can cause acute renal failure.
Treatment of chronic leukemia is more individualized; treatment is not even undertaken if the only symptom is lymphocytosis, as possible complications pose a greater threat to health. In the later stages of the disease, chemotherapy is primarily used.
If you need additional consultation with an oncologist, you can discuss your problems via the haloDoctor video chat. All you need to do is arrange an e-appointment with the oncologist.
Read also:
- Last chance therapy for cancer patients. What is it about?
- How is it done, i.e. methods of bone marrow harvesting
- Who can become a bone marrow donor?
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