Description
A disease of the blood forming tissues (including the bone marrow lymphatic system) characterized by the over-production of white blood cells. There are multiple types including: acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), and hairy cell leukemia. The severity of the disease depends on the cell type and whether it is the acute or chronic form.
Symptoms
Some people have no symptoms, especially early in the illness. Common symptoms include: bone pain, bleeding gums, easy bruising, fatigue, frequent infections, fever, chills, rash, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, shortness of breath.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to measure the type and number of white blood cells. A bone marrow biopsy is usually necessary to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Bone marrow biopsy
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to measure the type and number of white blood cells. A bone marrow biopsy is usually necessary to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Bone marrow biopsy
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of leukemia but may include: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or bone marrow transplant.