Leukemia
Leukemia Cancer Treatment in Kolkata
Symptoms of Leukemia
The symptoms of leukemia may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the type. However, some common symptoms include:- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent infections or fevers
- Easy bruising or bleeding, such as bleeding gums, nose bleeding
- Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck or armpits, an enlarged spleen or liver, groin or stomach.
- Bone pain or tenderness
- Sudden weight loss
- Night sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Bone and joint pain
- Tiny red spots on the skin (petechiae)
- Pale skin
Causes of Leukemia
While the accurate reason behind leukemia is unclear, several risk factors may increase the chance of developing the disease:Cancer Treatment History
Individuals with a history of chemotherapy or radiation therapy from earlier cancer treatments are at a higher risk of developing leukemia later in life.
Chemical Exposure
Being exposed to industrial chemicals, especially benzene, can increase the risk.
Genetic Conditions
Certain genetic conditions like Down syndrome can be a key factor in leukemia.
Family History
A family history of leukemia can also raise an individual’s risk of developing the disease.
Types of Leukemia
Leukemia is classified based on how quickly it spreads (acute or chronic) and the type of blood cell affected (lymphoid or myeloid). Below are the major types explained:Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) is the most common leukemia in children but also affects adults. It develops when immature white blood cells (lymphoblasts) grow uncontrollably, which affects the blood and bone marrow.
Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
Acute Myelogenous or myeloid is a fast-growing leukemia in both children and adults. It causes abnormal myeloid cells and healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
This slower-growing leukemia affects adults, often with no symptoms for years. Swollen lymph nodes and fatigue may appear as it advances.Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
CML mostly affects adults and has a slow initial phase, during which symptoms might not appear. Over time, it can move to a more severe phase, which may demand immediate medical intervention.
Other Types
Other rarer forms of leukemia include hairy cell leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative disorders. Each has different characteristics and treatment procedures.
Diagnosis of Leukemia
Doctors at our Leukemia cancer treatment clinic in Kolkata have various diagnostic approaches, including:Medical Examination
Doctors check for swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen enlargement.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This blood test measures the number and quality of blood cells and helps identify abnormalities in blood cells.
Blood Cell Examination
A microscopic examination detects unnatural leukemia cells.
Bone Marrow Biopsy
A sample of bone marrow is extracted to confirm the presence of leukemia cells.
Imaging and Other Tests
CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays help examine the spread of the disease.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
This test detects whether leukemia has spread to the central nervous system or is present in the cerebrospinal fluid.
How Leukemia Is Treated?
Here are some common Leukemia treatment options followed by specialized hematologist-oncologist:Chemotherapy
A primary treatment option that uses drugs to destroy leukemia cells.
Immunotherapy
Also known as biologic therapy, it boosts the immune system’s ability to target and fight leukemia cells.
Radiation Therapy
Uses high-energy rays to destroy leukemia cells or shrink affected areas, such as the spleen.
Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant
Also called a hematopoietic cell transplant, this procedure replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
CAR T-cell Therapy
A newer treatment where immune cells are engineered to fight leukemia.
For an individual treatment plan, visit a Leukemia cancer treatment clinic in Kolkata and get personalized consultation from specialized oncologists.
