Leukaemi

Leukaemi, also known as leukemia, is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is characterized by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells, which are called leukaemic cells or blasts. These abnormal cells do not function properly and can crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to a variety of health problems.

There are several main types of leukaemi, categorized by how quickly they develop and the type of white blood cell affected. Acute leukaemias develop rapidly and require immediate treatment, while chronic leukaemias develop more slowly and may not show symptoms for a long time. Leukaemias can also be classified as lymphoid or myeloid, depending on whether they originate in the lymphoid or myeloid cells, respectively. Common types include Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL), and Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML).

The exact cause of leukaemi is not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified. These include exposure to high levels of radiation, certain chemicals like benzene, and some genetic disorders such as Down syndrome. While the disease can affect people of all ages, it is more common in older adults and children.

Symptoms of leukaemi can vary depending on the type and severity, but often include fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes. Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and other imaging techniques.

Treatment for leukaemi depends on the specific type, the patient's age and overall health, and the extent of the disease. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. The prognosis for leukaemi has improved significantly over the years with advances in medical research and treatment options.