Leukemia

Common Condition

Cancer of blood-forming tissues, affecting white blood cells. Different types affect different age groups with varying prognosis.

Related specialists:OncologistHematologist

Symptoms

Fever or chills
Persistent fatigue
Frequent infections
Unexplained weight loss
Swollen lymph nodes
Easy bleeding or bruising
Recurrent nosebleeds
Tiny red spots on skin (petechiae)
Night sweats
Bone pain or tenderness

Causes

1
Previous cancer treatment
2
Genetic disorders (Down syndrome)
3
Exposure to chemicals (benzene)
4
Smoking
5
Family history
6
Blood disorders
7
Radiation exposure
8
Viral infections
9
Often unknown cause
10
Genetic mutations

Treatments

Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy
Radiation therapy
Bone marrow transplant
Stem cell transplant
Immunotherapy
CAR T-cell therapy
Watchful waiting (some chronic types)
Supportive care
Clinical trials
When to See a Doctor

See a doctor for persistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, easy bruising or bleeding, or swollen lymph nodes.

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About Leukemia

Leukemia: Understanding Blood Cancer

Leukemia includes many different types with varying treatments and outcomes. Some are aggressive and require immediate treatment; others progress slowly. Treatment advances have dramatically improved survival.

"Ang leukemia ay maraming uri—ang diagnosis at treatment ay kailangan ng specialist."