Leukemia is a group of cancers related to the blood. Leukemia affects the replication of white blood cells in the bone marrow. The malignant cells outnumber the healthy cells, which, in turn, reduces immunity levels and impedes the production of blood cells.
The types of leukemia are based on the type of cancer cells. The basic leukemia types are acute and chronic leukemia. Acute leukemia is caused due to the presence of immature cells in the bone marrow. On the other hand, chronic leukemia is caused due to abnormal cells that are more mature than those found in acute leukemia.
1. Classification of leukemia
In the case of acute leukemia, the abnormal, immature cells multiply rapidly. The rapid growth of these immature cells turns leukemia into a serious condition that requires immediate, aggressive treatment to contain the growth of the cells and to destroy them.
Chronic leukemia is characterized by the slow growth of abnormal cells that are more mature than those found in acute leukemia. Some of the chronic leukemia types progress so slowly that there are no signs or symptoms even for a year after the onset of the disease.
Lymphocytic leukemia is a type of leukemia that affects the lymphoid cells. These cells are the building blocks of the lymph tissue present all over the body.
Myelogenous leukemia affects the myeloid cells that produce red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) is a fatal form of leukemia that was incurable a few decades ago. However, now, early detection can cure this type of leukemia completely.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is more common in adults and can be cured through aggressive treatment.
Acute Myeloid Lymphoma (AML) is recognized as childhood cancer but is common in adults as well. This also requires aggressive treatment that involves hospitalization during the initial stages.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is the first leukemia type that can be controlled and cured with targeted therapies.
2. Symptoms of leukemia
Most leukemia types do not show signs and symptoms during the early stages.
Some of the common symptoms of leukemia are:
3. Diagnosis of leukemia
After a physical examination and evaluation of the symptoms, the doctor subjects the affected person to a series of tests to diagnose leukemia. Blood tests to determine RBC, WBC, and platelet counts are commonly advised. A biopsy or bone marrow test is another diagnostic method for leukemia.
4. Treatment of leukemia
Different leukemia types require different treatment methods based on the stage. Some leukemia types progress slowly while others progress rapidly. Conventional treatment methods are chemotherapy, radiation, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. The duration of each therapy depends on the severity of the cancer. Stem cell transplantation is another treatment option for leukemia.