Leukaemia is a type of cancer of the blood cells that affects the body's ability to fight infections. It can be either acute or chronic, and can affect both adults and children. While it is not possible to completely cure leukaemia, it is possible to manage it and reduce the symptoms with the help of medical treatments.
What is Leukaemia?
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood cells that begins in the bone marrow, the soft inner part of the bones where new blood cells are made. It is caused by an abnormal increase in white blood cells, which are the cells that fight infection. Depending on the type, leukaemia can progress quickly or slowly.
Types of Leukaemia
Leukaemia can be divided into two main categories: acute and chronic. Acute leukaemia is a fast-growing form of cancer that affects immature blood cells. Chronic leukaemia is a slower-growing form of cancer that affects mature white blood cells.
Symptoms of Leukaemia
The symptoms of leukaemia vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and easy bruising. Other symptoms can include bone and joint pain, anemia, and an enlarged spleen or liver.
Treating Leukaemia
Leukaemia is treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. Depending on the type and stage of the disease, other treatments such as stem cell transplantation and targeted therapy may be used.
Can Leukaemia Go Away?
Leukaemia is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with medical treatments, and some patients may be able to achieve remission. With the right treatment, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease and reduce the symptoms.