Acute leukemia is a serious and life-threatening form of cancer. It is characterized by rapid growth of abnormal cells that accumulate in the bone marrow and blood. The severity of acute leukemia depends on the type of leukemia and the patient's age and overall health.
Types of Acute Leukemia
There are two main types of acute leukemia: acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). AML is more common in adults, while ALL is more common in children.
Risk Factors
In some cases, the cause of acute leukemia is unknown. However, certain factors have been linked to an increased risk of developing the disease, including radiation exposure, exposure to certain chemicals, certain genetic disorders, and a family history of leukemia.
Symptoms
The symptoms of acute leukemia can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, weight loss, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, joint and bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
Diagnosis
To diagnose acute leukemia, a doctor will perform a physical exam and order tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), bone marrow biopsy, and imaging tests.
Treatment
Treatment for acute leukemia typically involves chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of both. The type of treatment will depend on the type and stage of the disease. In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be recommended.
Outlook
The outlook for patients with acute leukemia depends on several factors, such as the type of leukemia, the patient's age and overall health, and how well the treatment works. With treatment, many patients can achieve remission or even be cured.