Leukemia, the Cancer of the Bone Marrow & Blood
General Information on the Four Different Types of this Disease
Nov 10, 2009
Leukemia is a disease that creates an abundance of abnormal blood cells. The term "leukemia" actually covers four different types of the disease. The specific terms are myelogenous and lymphocytic. These terms specify what cells are being attacked by the disease. There are also acute and chronic forms of each of the specific terms that represent how aggressive the disease is in the individual.
Myelogenous Leukemia
Myelogenous leukemia occurs in the marrow. The cells that are attacked in this form of the disease would normally become red cells, white cells, or platelets. In acute myelogenous leukemia, the diseased cells replicate rapidly but create new cells that do not function. These new cells slow the production of normal functioning cells.
With chronic myelogenous leukemia, the red blood cells may replicate as normal in both functional ability and amount created. The issue is that white cells may be created in a large number. If untreated, the white cells can reach such high numbers that the flow of blood in the circulatory system is slowed.
Lymphocytic Leukemia
Lymphocytic leukemia occurs in the marrow but attacks different cells than myelogenous leukemia. With lymphocytic leukemia, the lymphocytes are the cells that are attacked by the disease. Acute lymphocytic leukemia also replicates non-functioning cells very quickly.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia creates cells in the marrow and lymph nodes. The new cells stop the production of normal cells and lower the patient’s immune system. Unlike the other forms of leukemia, individuals with chronic lymphocytic leukemia may not know they have the disease. These individuals may also have few symptoms in the early stages.
Symptoms of Leukemia
Even when the symptoms are noted, it is impossible to determine which form of leukemia an individual may have without additional tests. The symptoms can also be associated with another illness or disease. The symptoms can include:
- night sweats
- low energy
- bleeding that does not stop quickly
- bruising easily
- unexplained weight loss
- internal pain that can not be explained (unknown cause of the pain for the individual)
If symptoms are noted, it is best to notify a professional for more information.
When a diagnosis is reached, the physician will be able to discuss the next step in treatment. There are many possibilities to consider when this step is reached. The health of the individual and any additional factor will also need to be taken into consideration. Depending on the types and stage of the disease, immediate treatment may not be critically needed but the sooner it is started often the better the results.
From more information, visit the leukemia and lymphoma society website.
Source:
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (2009). Leukemia.Retrieved November 10, 2009 from: http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/all_page?item_id=7026
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