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What is Leukemia (Blood Cancer)?

Leukemia is a type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow (where blood cells are produced) and causes abnormal production of blood cells. Normally, the production of blood cells in the body takes place in a controlled way. In the case of leukemia, however, this process is disrupted and abnormal blood cells are overproduced in the bone marrow. These abnormal cells replace normal blood cells and prevent healthy blood cells from functioning in the body. Leukemia can also cause these abnormal cells to spread into the bloodstream.

Leukemia can be divided into several subtypes and symptoms can vary. In general, symptoms of leukemia can include persistent fatigue, weakness, recurrent infections, pallor, weight loss, fever and other problems with bleeding or blood clotting. The diagnosis is made through blood tests and tests such as a bone marrow biopsy. Depending on the type and stage of leukemia, treatment may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone marrow transplantation and targeted drug therapy.

 

What are the Types of Leukemia (Blood Cancer)?

Leukemia is usually divided into four main types:

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): This type of leukemia is characterized by overproduction of immature white blood cells called lymphocytes, called lymphoblasts. It usually occurs in children, but can also occur rarely in adults.
2. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): This type of leukemia is characterized by an overproduction of myeloid cells (a type of white blood cell normally found in the bone marrow). It can affect both adults and children.
3. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): This type of leukemia is characterized by overproduction of immature lymphocytes and affects a chronic form of lymphocytic cells. It usually affects middle-aged and older adults.
4. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): This type of leukemia is characterized by overproduction of myeloid cells in the bone marrow. It usually occurs in middle-aged adults.

Each of these types is associated with different symptoms, treatment approaches and prognoses. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of tests such as a bone marrow biopsy, blood tests and imaging studies. Depending on the type and stage of leukemia, treatment may include chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, radiotherapy and bone marrow transplantation.

 

What Causes Leukemia (Blood Cancer)?

The exact cause of leukemia is not yet known. However, research shows that a number of factors can increase the risk of leukemia. These include genetic predisposition, environmental factors and lifestyle factors. Here are some factors that can cause leukemia:

1. Genetic Predisposition: People with a family history of leukemia have a higher risk of leukemia. Some genetic disorders can increase the risk of developing leukemia.
2. Radiation Exposure: Exposure to high levels of radiation can increase the risk of leukemia. In particular, the side effects of radiotherapy or nuclear radiation can lead to leukemia.
3. Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, especially toxic substances such as benzene, can increase the risk of leukemia. People who are exposed to such chemicals as part of their occupation have a higher risk of leukemia.
4. Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of leukemia.
5. Viruses and Infections: Some viruses, especially HTLV-1 (human T-cell leukemia virus) and Epstein-Barr virus, can increase the risk of leukemia.
6. Bone Marrow Disorders: Some bone marrow disorders, especially myelodysplastic syndromes, can increase the risk of leukemia.

However, for most cases of leukemia, no definitive cause can be identified and it is thought to be the result of a combination of multiple factors. Research shows that there is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors in the development of leukemia.

 

What are the Symptoms of Leukemia (Blood Cancer)?

Symptoms of leukemia can vary from person to person and according to the type of leukemia, but in general can include

1. Constant Fatigue and exhaustion: Leukemia affects the production of normal blood cells, which can reduce the body's capacity to carry oxygen, resulting in a feeling of constant fatigue and exhaustion.
2. Undiagnosed fever: Frequent episodes of fever may occur because of an increased risk of inflammation and infection.
3. Pallor: Pallor of the skin and eyes may occur due to decreased red blood cell levels.
4. Weight loss: Weight loss may occur due to loss of appetite or changes in metabolism.
5. Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes can be seen in the neck, armpit or groin.
6. Excessive sweating: It can be seen especially in the form of night sweats.
7. Bone pain or joint pain: Bone pain or joint pain may occur when the bone marrow is affected.
8. Shortness of breath: Due to reduced red blood cell levels, the body's capacity to carry oxygen may be reduced, which can cause shortness of breath.
9. Bleeding and bruising: Bruising or bleeding can easily occur due to decreased platelet levels.

These symptoms may indicate leukemia, but they can also overlap with symptoms of other health problems. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor.

Symptoms of Leukemia (Blood Cancer) in Children

Symptoms of leukemia in children may differ from those in adults. Some of the symptoms of leukemia in children are as follows:

1. Constant tiredness and fatigue: Your child may seem more tired and lethargic than usual. This may be evident even during normal childhood activities.
2. Pallor and changes in skin color: Your child's skin may look pale or sallow. There may also be dark circles under the eyes.
3. Weight loss or loss of appetite: Your child may lose their normal appetite or lose weight.
4. Bone pain: Your child may experience bone pain or tenderness in their body, especially in their legs and arms.
5. Swollen lymph nodes: There may be swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin.
6. Frequent infections: If your child has frequent infections or takes a long time to recover, it may be a sign of a weakened immune system.
7. Fever and night sweats: Your child may have recurrent bouts of fever or night sweats.
8. Bleeding and bruising: Bleeding symptoms such as easy bruising, nosebleeds or bleeding gums may occur.
9. Shortness of breath: Due to anemia, your child may have shortness of breath.

These symptoms do not always indicate leukemia, but if you notice any of these signs in your child, it is important to contact a pediatrician. Early diagnosis can increase the chances of a cure.

 

How is Leukemia (Blood Cancer) Diagnosed?

Leukemia is diagnosed using a series of tests and assessments. A doctor may follow a diagnostic process that may include the following steps:

1. Physical Examination: The doctor performs a physical examination to assess the general health of the patient. The doctor may check the size of the lymph nodes, liver and lymphoid tissue such as the spleen.
2. Blood Tests: Blood tests help identify abnormal blood cell levels and other blood parameters that may indicate leukemia. These tests include a complete blood count (CBC), peripheral smear, which can help identify leukemia cells, and blood biochemistry tests.
3. Bone Marrow Biopsy: In this procedure, a sample of bone marrow is taken with a needle and examined. Bone marrow biopsy can determine the presence of abnormal cells in the bone marrow and the type of leukemia.
4. Biopsy of Lymph Glands: If there is swelling of the lymph nodes, the doctor may take a biopsy of the lymph gland. This can help determine the lymphoid or myeloid type of leukemia.
5. Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or positron emission tomography (PET) can be used to determine whether leukemia has spread to other parts of the body.
6. Cytogenetic and Molecular Tests: By examining the genetic makeup of leukemia cells, it can be determined whether the cells have certain gene mutations. This can provide important information for treatment and prognosis.

The diagnostic process can vary depending on many factors, such as the patient's symptoms, laboratory test results and imaging findings. A multidisciplinary approach is often used for accurate diagnosis and classification, which may involve hematologists, pathologists, radiologists and other specialists.

 

How is Leukemia (Blood Cancer) Treated?

Treatment for leukemia varies depending on the type and stage of leukemia, the patient's age and general health. Treatment may usually involve one or more modalities and usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. Some common methods used to treat leukemia include the following:

1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells or control their growth. These drugs can be in the form of pills taken by mouth, drugs injected into a vein or muscle, or drugs given directly into the bone marrow.
2. Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy uses high-energy beams to destroy or control the growth of cancer cells. It usually targets cancer cells in the bone marrow or lymph nodes.
3. Bone Marrow Transplant: A bone marrow transplant is used to rebuild the bone marrow with healthy cells after high doses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy. This can help relieve the side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy used to treat leukemia and help the bone marrow regain normal function.
4. Targeted Therapies: Targeted drugs try to destroy cancer cells or control their growth by targeting specific targets found in specific cancer cells.
5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy aims to stimulate the patient's own immune system to target cancer cells. This treatment can work by stimulating the immune system against leukemia cells.
6. Supportive Treatment: During leukemia treatment, supportive therapies may be used to improve the patient's quality of life and optimize response to treatment. These may include blood transfusions, antiemetics (anti-vomiting medications), antibiotics and other symptom management treatments.

Leukemia treatment may involve a combination of one or more modalities and is often customized to the specific patient's condition. The treatment plan also considers factors such as the patient's tolerance to side effects, lifestyle and preferences. The treatment plan is usually led by a hematologist-oncologist or leukemia specialist.

 

Why choose HealthTürkiye?

Türkiye has become a sought-after destination for medical tourism, thanks to its well-established healthcare system and highly trained medical professionals. HealthTürkiye, an official representative of the Türkiye healthcare system, has been authorized by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye to assist international travelers seeking medical care in Türkiye. USHAŞ is a government-affiliated organization that makes it easier for international travelers to get the right direction and guidance for medical services. HealthTürkiye offers specialized services to guide patients from all over the world in accessing top-quality medical services in Türkiye.

HealthTürkiye provides a wide range of medical facilities and advanced technology to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The organization collaborates with the foremost hospitals in the field to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and preferences. The medical professionals at these hospitals are highly trained and experienced, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care.

Building on the achievement of HealthTürkiye, Türkiye strives to position itself as the greatest global center for healthcare services. By prioritizing inclusive and readily available healthcare services, as well as embracing cutting-edge technology and specialized knowledge, Türkiye has emerged as an appealing destination for individuals seeking medical tourism opportunities.

If you would like to benefit from Türkiye's healthcare services, HealthTürkiye will meet you the best medical care.