Leukemia

Leukemia Overview

• Definition: Group of malignant disorders affecting blood and blood-forming tissues.
• Characteristics:
  • Abnormal proliferation of blood cells.
  • Loss of normal cell regulation.
  • Potentially fatal if untreated.

Symptoms and Implications

• Thrombocytopenia: Reduced platelet count leading to increased risk of hemorrhage.
• Infection Risk: Immature white blood cells lead to compromised ability to fight infections.
• Anemia: Results from the increase in abnormal cells affecting overall health.

Causes and Risk Factors

• No Single Cause: A combination of genetic and environmental influences.
• Environmental Factors:
  • Exposure to radiation.
  • Exposure to chemicals or drugs that damage blood cells.
  • Smoking.
• Genetic Influences: Certain genetic disorders like Down syndrome increase risk.
• Immune System Deficiencies: Conditions like HIV or medications that suppress immune function increase risk.

Classification

• By Cell Type:
  • Myeloid.
  • Lymphoid.
• By Progression:
  • Acute.
  • Chronic.