Leukemia: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Tests

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. Unlike other cancers that form solid tumors, leukemia usually causes the body to produce large numbers of abnormal white blood cells, which can crowd out healthy blood cells. This affects the body's ability to fight infections, control bleeding, and transport oxygen efficiently. Although it can sound frightening, advancements in medical research and treatment have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for many people with leukemia.

What is Leukemia?

Leukemia is defined as a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, mainly affecting the bone marrow and lymphatic system. The disease usually involves the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which don't function properly. These abnormal cells accumulate and interfere with the production of normal blood cells—red cells, healthy white cells, and platelets. Since blood flows throughout the body, leukemia can have widespread effects, impacting multiple organs and systems. It can occur suddenly (acute leukemia) or develop slowly over time (chronic leukemia).

Causes of Leukemia

The exact cause of leukemia isn’t fully understood, but researchers have identified several risk factors and genetic changes that may contribute to its development:

• Genetic mutations: Changes in DNA can lead to uncontrolled growth of white blood cells.
• Inherited genetic disorders: Conditions like Down syndrome increase the risk.
• Exposure to radiation: High levels of radiation, such as from atomic bomb exposure, are linked to leukemia.
• Certain chemicals: Prolonged exposure to chemicals like benzene, used in some industries.
• Previous cancer treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers may increase risk later in life.
• Family history: Having a close relative with leukemia can slightly increase risk.
• Smoking: Increases the risk of certain types of leukemia.
• Immune system disorders: Some congenital immune deficiencies raise the risk.

It's important to remember that having one or even several risk factors does not mean a person will definitely develop leukemia.

Symptoms of Leukemia

Leukemia symptoms can vary based on type and severity but often include:

• Frequent infections: Due to a shortage of healthy white blood cells.
• Fatigue and weakness: Caused by reduced red blood cells (anemia).
• Fever and chills: Resulting from infections or the disease itself.
• Easy bruising or bleeding: Due to a lack of platelets.
• Bone or joint pain: Abnormal cells may accumulate in bone marrow.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Especially in the neck, underarms, or groin.
• Enlarged liver or spleen: Can cause discomfort or fullness.
• Unexplained weight loss: Sometimes accompanied by night sweats.
• Paleness: Caused by anemia.
• Shortness of breath: Often noticeable during physical activity.

These symptoms can resemble other illnesses, so it’s important to consult a doctor if they persist.

Types of Leukemia

Leukemia is classified mainly by how quickly it progresses (acute or chronic) and the type of white blood cell it affects (lymphoid or myeloid):

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):

• Rapidly progressing.
• Most common in children, though it can also affect adults.
• Involves immature lymphoid cells.

2. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML):

• Rapid onset.
• More common in older adults but can affect children.
• Affects immature myeloid cells.

3. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL):

• Slower progression.
• Primarily affects older adults.
• Abnormal lymphoid cells accumulate over time.

4. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):

• Often progresses in phases.
• Mainly seen in adults.
• Involves abnormal myeloid cells.

Other less common types:

There are rarer subtypes, such as hairy cell leukemia and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, which affect fewer people.

Understanding the type of leukemia is essential for determining the right treatment.

Tests Used to Detect Leukemia

If leukemia is suspected, doctors may recommend several diagnostic tests:

• Complete blood count (CBC): Measures the number and types of blood cells; abnormal counts may suggest leukemia.
• Peripheral blood smear: Examines the shape and appearance of blood cells under a microscope.
• Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration: Removes a sample of bone marrow to look for abnormal cells; crucial for confirming diagnosis.
• Cytogenetic analysis: Examines chromosomes in cells for genetic changes related to leukemia.
• Flow cytometry: Identifies leukemia cell types and specific markers.
• Molecular tests: Detect specific genetic mutations linked to leukemia subtypes.
• Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound or CT scans to detect enlarged organs or lymph nodes.

Together, these tests help doctors diagnose leukemia accurately and determine its subtype.

Treatment Options for Leukemia

Treatment depends on the type and stage of leukemia, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. Common approaches include:

• Chemotherapy: The main treatment for most types of leukemia, using drugs to destroy cancerous cells.
• Targeted therapy: Medications that specifically attack cancer cells based on genetic changes.
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill leukemia cells or shrink enlarged organs.
• Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant: Replaces diseased marrow with healthy marrow from a donor.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight leukemia cells.
• Supportive care: Includes antibiotics to prevent infection, blood transfusions, and medication to manage symptoms.

Some patients may need a combination of treatments, and ongoing follow-ups are critical.

Living with Leukemia

A leukemia diagnosis changes life, but many people go on to lead fulfilling lives during and after treatment. Emotional support, a healthy diet, regular physical activity (as recommended by doctors), and avoiding infections become important aspects of care. Advances in research mean new treatments and better survival rates than ever before.

Conclusion

Leukemia is a serious but increasingly treatable disease. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and types helps in recognizing warning signs early and seeking prompt medical care. Thanks to research and medical advancements, many people with leukemia live longer and healthier lives. If you or a loved one is diagnosed, remember you’re not alone—support from healthcare teams, family, and patient organizations can make a significant difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is leukemia?
Leukemia is cancer of the blood-forming tissues, usually involving abnormal white blood cells.

What causes leukemia?
The exact cause isn’t fully known, but genetic mutations, radiation, chemicals like benzene, and some inherited conditions increase risk.

What are the early symptoms of leukemia?
Frequent infections, fatigue, unexplained bruising, bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes.

How is leukemia diagnosed?
Through blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, cytogenetic studies, and sometimes imaging.

Is leukemia more common in children or adults?
Certain types like ALL are more common in children, while AML, CLL, and CML are more common in adults.

Can leukemia be cured?
Some types can be cured, especially in children; others can often be managed long-term.

Does leukemia always progress quickly?
No. Acute leukemia progresses fast; chronic leukemia often develops slowly.

What is the main treatment for leukemia?
Chemotherapy is most common, sometimes combined with targeted therapy, stem cell transplants, or immunotherapy.

Can lifestyle changes help prevent leukemia?
While risk factors like genetics can’t be changed, avoiding smoking and harmful chemical exposure may help reduce risk.

Are there different types of leukemia?
Yes: ALL, AML, CLL, and CML, plus some rarer subtypes.