Characteristics of Leukemias, Lymphomas, and Myelomas

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the characteristics and classifications of leukemias, lymphomas, and myelomas as discussed in the lecture.

Leukemia

A disease usually involving leukocytes in the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the overproduction of immature or mature leukocytes.

Lymphoma

A malignancy that starts in the lymph system, mainly affecting the lymph nodes; can be categorized into Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Myeloma

A form of cancer affecting plasma cells, leading to overgrowth and formation of a tumor in the bone marrow.

Acute Leukemia

Characterized by symptoms of short duration, many immature cell forms, and an elevated total leukocyte count.

Chronic Leukemia

Characterized by symptoms of long duration, mostly mature cell forms, and total leukocyte counts that vary widely.

Virchow's Classification

The initial classification of leukemias into those with and without lymphadenopathy, pioneered by Rudolf Virchow.

FAB Classification

A classification system that categorizes leukemias based on predominant blood cell morphology and cytochemistry.

WHO Classification

A system that stratifies neoplasms by lineage and combines morphological information with genetic studies.

Oncogene

A gene that has the potential to cause cancer when mutated; key for malignant cell proliferation.

Tumor-Suppressing Genes

Genes that regulate cell growth; their inactivation can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Environmental Factors

Factors such as exposure to radiation or chemicals that can increase the risk of developing leukemia.

Philadelphia Chromosome

A specific genetic abnormality found in some cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, involving a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22.

Clinical Remission

A state in which the signs and symptoms of leukemia can be reduced or eliminated through treatment.

MRD (Minimal Residual Disease)

The small number of cancer cells that may remain in a patient's body after treatment, which can lead to relapse.