What Is Leukemia?
Fear Leukemia no more it affects roughly one in every 25,000 children and arises from genetic defects in blood cell nuclei, leading to uncontrolled growth. Yet today, Fear Leukemia is not as frightening as before. Early diagnosis and advanced treatments now make complete recovery a real possibility.
Liv Hospital Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Hilmi Apak advises parents to watch for persistent symptoms like a fever lasting more than 10 days. He notes, “Weakness, fatigue, anemia, bleeding from the gums or nose, unexplained bruising, or prolonged fever should not be ignored as they may point to leukemia.”
Body cannot defend itself
Leukemia often follows an infection and is recognized as a disease of the immune system. When white blood cells multiply uncontrollably, the body can no longer defend itself, and other blood components, like red blood cells and platelets, are affected. As leukemia advances, bone marrow produces fewer red blood cells, leading to anemia. Reduced bone marrow activity also lowers platelet numbers. Since platelets are vital for controlling bleeding, low levels result in symptoms such as frequent bleeding, easy bruising, and recurring fever.
Beware of the symptoms
Signs similar to leukemia may appear at any age. Families should observe symptoms carefully but without panic. Occasional nosebleeds or bruises can be normal, but if they persist, medical advice is essential.
If a fever lasts more than 10 days, bruising continues, or there are unusual swellings or blood test results, consult a hematologist promptly. Staying informed means you can Fear Leukemia less and act wisely. A calm and proactive approach helps prevent unnecessary anxiety while ensuring children receive timely care.
Diagnosis and treatment
When leukemia is suspected, doctors begin with a blood count and a microscopic exam. If these results are worrisome, a bone marrow sample is required for further analysis. Should the pathology lab confirm leukemia, additional bone marrow tests will help determine the specific type. Cortisone-based medications are central to treatment. If acute leukemia shows a good initial response to cortisone, the chance of a positive reaction to chemotherapy increases. Throughout care, regular physician monitoring is necessary, since immunity often drops and transfusions may be needed. Treatment may extend for two years and generally occurs on an outpatient basis.
Bone marrow transplantation not a primary preference
Bone marrow transplantation is usually not the initial option for leukemia treatment. The choice depends on the patient's cell characteristics, treatment response, and risk of recurrence. Chemotherapy is preferred first, as it is often more successful than transplantation. If chemotherapy begins to fail, bone marrow transplantation becomes an option. In this process, very high doses of chemotherapy are used to eliminate the patient's diseased bone marrow. Afterwards, healthy bone marrow from a suitable donor is infused into the patient under careful supervision. Transplants from relatives are often effective, though similar outcomes may be achieved with bone marrow from unrelated donors.
Prevention and Emotional Support
Although leukemia cannot always be prevented, maintaining overall immune health and avoiding unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation can reduce risk factors. Families are also encouraged to provide emotional support to children during treatment.
Open communication, gentle reassurance, and small daily routines can make children feel safe and understood. Parents who stay informed and optimistic often find it easier to Fear Leukemia less, focusing instead on healing and hope.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
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