leukémií

Leukémie is a Czech term that translates to leukemia in English. Leukemia is a group of blood cancers that usually begin in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. In people with leukemia, the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells, called leukemia cells, do not function properly and can crowd out healthy blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

There are several types of leukemia, broadly categorized by how quickly they progress and the type of white blood cell affected. Acute leukemias develop quickly and require immediate treatment, while chronic leukemias develop more slowly and may not show symptoms for years. Leukemias can also be classified as lymphoid or myeloid, depending on which type of white blood cell is involved. Common types include acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Symptoms of leukemia can vary but may include fatigue, frequent infections, bruising or bleeding easily, fever, and unexplained weight loss. The exact cause of leukemia is not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified, such as exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, some genetic conditions, and a history of other blood disorders.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and other imaging and laboratory tests. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of leukemia and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplantation. The prognosis for leukemia has improved significantly over the years due to advancements in treatment.