Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the body's blood cells, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. It can affect people of any age, but it is most common in children. The good news is that with early diagnosis and treatment, many children can fully recover from leukemia.
Types of Leukemia
Leukemia is classified according to the type of cell that is affected. These include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The type of leukemia determines the way it is treated.
Symptoms of Leukemia
The signs and symptoms of leukemia may vary from person to person and may include: fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, pale skin, easy bruising and bleeding, night sweats, bone and joint pain, and anemia.
Diagnosis of Leukemia
If a doctor suspects that a patient has leukemia, they may order tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), a bone marrow biopsy, or imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.
Treatment of Leukemia
Treatment for leukemia depends on the type and stage of the disease. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplant.
Outlook for Children with Leukemia
The outlook for children with leukemia is good. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most children can fully recover from leukemia. However, it is important to note that recovery may take several months, and some children may experience side effects from treatments.