Leukemia: blood cancer

Leukemia is a type of cancer that impacts white blood cells. It's the most common form of cancer in children and adolescents, as well as adults. This disease has many subtypes with their own specific characteristics and treatment plans. Symptoms of leukemia can include fatigue, weakness, infections, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, enlarged lymph nodes, and easy bruising or bleeding. Diagnosis typically uses physical exams, blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, or imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to determine subtypes and stages. Treatment plans are based on the type of leukemia and the patient's age and health status; they may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy – or a combination thereof – plus a bone marrow or stem cell transplant if necessary. Prevention is difficult to do due to not knowing the exact cause; however, reducing exposure to radiation and certain chemicals may help reduce risk. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes.