Leukemia Study Notes

Leukemia Overview

• Etiology/Pathophysiology

  • Malignant disorder of the hematopoietic system.

  • Excess leukocytes accumulate in bone marrow & lymph nodes.

  • Bone marrow produces immature cells.

  • Cause is unknown; potential causes include genetic factors, viruses, exposure to radiation, or chemotherapy.

• Classification

  • Acute or Chronic

  • Proliferating cells: lymphocytic, monocytic, etc.

Signs & Symptoms

• Anemia

  • Pallor, fatigue, malaise.

• Thrombocytopenia

  • Petechiae, epistaxis, bruising, occult blood.

• Leukopenia

  • Fever, upper respiratory infections.

• Enlarged lymph nodes.

• Splenomegaly.

Treatment

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation

• Bone marrow transplant

• Medications

  • Leukeran

  • Hydroxyurea

  • Corticosteroids

  • Cytoxan