This disease is characterized by the overproduction of immature white blood cells, known as blasts, which crowd out normal cells, leading to severe health complications. There are two main types of acute leukemia: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).
Types of Acute Leukemia
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): This type primarily affects children but can also occur in adults. ALL starts in the bone marrow where it produces lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune system. Abnormal lymphoblasts proliferate uncontrollably, leading to a deficiency of normal blood cells.
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): More common in adults, AML affects myeloid cells that mature into different types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The rapid growth of abnormal myeloblasts interferes with the production of normal blood cells.
Symptoms of Acute Leukemia
The symptoms of acute leukemia can be subtle at first and may resemble those of other common illnesses. However, they quickly become severe as the disease progresses. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent infections
- Fever
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
In some cases, individuals may experience abdominal discomfort due to an enlarged spleen or liver.
Diagnosis of Acute Leukemia
Early diagnosis of acute leukemia is crucial for effective treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves several steps:
- Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will review the patient's medical history and perform a physical examination to check for signs of leukemia, such as swollen lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen.
- Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) is often the first test conducted. It measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. Abnormal levels of these cells can indicate leukemia.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: If blood tests suggest leukemia, a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are usually performed. During this procedure, a small sample of bone marrow is removed and examined under a microscope to look for leukemia cells.
- Cytogenetic Analysis: This test examines the chromosomes of the leukemia cells to identify specific genetic abnormalities associated with different types of leukemia.
- Immunophenotyping: This test uses antibodies to identify specific types of leukemia cells based on the proteins on their surface.
Conclusion
Understanding the types, symptoms, and diagnostic methods for acute leukemia is essential for early detection and effective treatment. While this disease can be life-threatening, advancements in medical research and treatment options offer hope for patients. Regular check-ups and awareness of the symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
