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Leukemia
Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood-forming tissues. It causes the body to produce abnormal white blood cells that interfere with normal blood cell function. Leukemia can be acute (fast-growing) or chronic (slow-growing).
Common Symptoms
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Frequent infections
- Fever or night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Enlarged liver or spleen
Diagnosis
Doctors may use several tests to diagnose leukemia:
- Physical examination and medical history
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Peripheral blood smear
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Flow cytometry and genetic testing
- CT scan or imaging studies if needed
- Lumbar puncture in certain cases
Treatments
Treatment depends on the type and stage of leukemia:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Stem cell or bone marrow transplant
- Supportive care such as blood transfusions and antibiotics