Leukemia begins when a single bone marrow cell’s DNA mutates, preventing it from functioning and growing normally. Leukemia cells, particularly white blood cells, often behave abnormally. The treatment options depend on the type of leukemia, your age, overall health, and whether it has spread to other organs.
What Is Leukemia?
The word “leukemia” comes from the Greek words “leukos” (white) and “haima” (blood), referring to a blood cancer that involves the rapid growth of abnormal blood cells, primarily in the bone marrow. Most leukemia cells are immature white blood cells. Unlike solid tumors, leukemia is not typically visible on imaging tests like CT scans or X-rays.
Types of Leukemia
Leukemia is classified into four main types:
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): Common in children and young adults but can affect adults under 40.
- Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML): Predominantly found in adults, particularly those over 65.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Primarily affects older adults, usually over 65, with symptoms that may not appear for years.
- Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML): Most common in adults over 65, though it can affect adults of any age. Symptoms may take years to develop.
Causes of Leukemia
Leukemia is caused by a mutation in the DNA of a single bone marrow cell. This mutation disrupts the cell’s normal lifecycle, causing uncontrolled growth. The mutated DNA spreads to all cells that develop from the initial mutated one. The exact cause of these mutations remains unknown.
Symptoms of Leukemia
Leukemia symptoms can vary depending on the type. Common signs include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent infections
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever and chills
- Pale skin and unexplained weight loss
- Joint or bone pain
- Swollen lymph nodes, spleen, or liver
- Easy bruising or bleeding, including nosebleeds and gum bleeding
Impact of Leukemia on the Body
Leukemia cells do not support body functions and take over the bone marrow, limiting the production of healthy blood cells. This reduces the body’s ability to fight infections, produce oxygen-rich red blood cells, and form blood clots.
Leukemia Treatment Cost in India
Leukemia treatment cost in India starts from INR 2,90,000 ($3,500), offering cost-effective, high-quality care. India’s healthcare system features world-class facilities and skilled professionals specializing in leukemia treatment, making it an attractive option for medical tourists.
Diagnosis of Leukemia
Leukemia is diagnosed using several methods, including:
- Physical exam: Checking for swollen lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and unusual rashes.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Identifies abnormal levels of white and red blood cells.
- Bone marrow biopsy: Confirms the presence of leukemia.
- Imaging tests: Determines if leukemia has affected other parts of the body.
- Lumbar puncture: Checks for leukemia spread to the spinal fluid.
Risk Factors for Leukemia
Factors that may increase leukemia risk include:
- Previous radiation or chemotherapy
- Genetic disorders like Down syndrome
- Family history of leukemia
- Exposure to carcinogens like formaldehyde or benzene
- Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
Leukemia Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the leukemia type and patient health. Common treatments include:
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy leukemia cells.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to target leukemia cells.
- Radiotherapy: Uses radiation to kill leukemia cells.
- Targeted therapy: Drugs targeting specific leukemia cell mutations.
- Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells.
- CAR T-cell therapy: Modifies immune cells to fight leukemia.
Leukemia Treatment Phases
Treatment is often divided into three phases:
- Induction therapy: Aims to achieve remission by eradicating leukemia cells.
- Consolidation therapy: Prevents recurrence by eliminating remaining cancer cells.
- Maintenance therapy: Ensures any leftover leukemia cells are destroyed and prevents the disease from returning.
How Can BMT Clinic Help?
BMT Clinic offers comprehensive assistance for patients seeking specialized leukemia treatment. We connect you with accredited physicians and hospitals, provide affordable treatment plans, and assist with medical visas and travel arrangements.
