Leukaemia

Understanding Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. It occurs when the body produces abnormal white blood cells in excess, which interfere with the production of normal blood cells. This imbalance weakens the immune system and disrupts normal body functions.

Types of Leukaemia

Leukaemia is categorized based on how quickly it progresses and the type of blood cells affected.

1. Acute Leukaemia
   • Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL): Common in children but also occurs in adults. It affects lymphoid cells and progresses rapidly.
   • Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): More common in adults and affects myeloid cells, leading to a quick spread.
2. Chronic Leukaemia
   • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL): Often diagnosed in older adults and progresses slowly, affecting lymphocytes.
   • Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML): Can develop at any age, typically progresses slowly at first, and impacts myeloid cells.

Risk Factors for Leukaemia

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing leukaemia:

• Genetic predispositions: Family history of leukaemia or inherited genetic disorders like Down syndrome.
• Radiation exposure
• Chemical exposure: Prolonged exposure to chemicals like benzene.
• Smoking
• Weakened immune system
• Gender: Leukaemia tends to be more prevalent in males than females across various subtypes.

Symptoms of Leukaemia

Leukaemia symptoms can vary depending on the type but often include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness.
• Frequent or severe infections.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Easy bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
• Bone or joint pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen.
• Night sweats or chills.
• Fever or recurring infections.

Diagnosing Leukaemia

Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. The diagnostic process may involve:

• Physical Examination: Checking for swelling in lymph nodes, liver, or spleen.
• Full blood count (FBC): Will be conducted to detect abnormalities in blood cell counts.
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: A sample of bone marrow is extracted to identify the presence and type of abnormal cells.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, PET CT Scans, or MRIs to assess the spread of the disease to other parts of the organs.

Treatment Options for Leukaemia

Treatment for leukaemia depends on the type, stage, and patient’s overall health. Common approaches include:

1. Chemotherapy
2. Radiation Therapy
3. Stem Cell Transplant
4. Targeted Therapy
5. Immunotherapy/ CAR-T Cell Therapy