Leukemia
is a cancer of the white blood cells and bone
marrow. The bone marrow is the spongy inner part of
bones where blood cells are made. White blood cells
arise from the marrow and circulate in the blood.
Leukemia is characterized by uncontrolled growth of
blood cells. In acute leukemia, immature,
functionless cells accumulate in the marrow and
blood. The marrow often can no longer produce enough
normal red and white blood cells and platelets.
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is the most
common leukemia in adults with some 10,100 new cases
annually. AML accounts for just under half of cases
of childhood leukemia. Although leukemia starts in
the bone marrow, it can spread to the blood, lymph
nodes, spleen, liver, central nervous system and
other organs. It does not usually form a solid mass
or tumor.
Risk factors can include
smoking, radiation or chemical exposure, prior
chemotherapy and certain pre-existing conditions or
infections. Numerous symptoms, from bruising to bone
or joint pain can give a physician reason to test
for AML. .
Treatment is directed toward
achieving complete remission and usually consists of
chemotherapy conducted in two
stages. The first stage is to induce remission and
the second stage it to destroy any remaining
leukemic cells.
Remember that any
cancer diagnosis is frightening; the support of
family and friends is critical, and many support
groups are available to patients and their families.
Hospitals Listing
BNH Hospital
{Thailand}
BNH Hospital
Apollo Hospitals
New Delhi
{India}
The Apollo Hospitals Group pioneered corporate healthcare in India and among the largest int
KPJ Healthcare, Berhad
Berhad
{Malaysia}
KPJ Healthcare, Berhad
Subang Jaya Medical Centre
{Malaysia}
Subang Jaya Medical Centre
OCC World Class Doctors
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