Leukemia
Leukemia
group of cancers begin in the bone marrow and result in abnormal growth of
white blood cells. These undeveloped white blood cells are called blasts or
leukemia cells.
Symptoms may include bleeding, feeling tired, fever,
and an increased risk of infections. These symptoms occur due to a lack of
normal blood cells. Diagnosis is typically made by blood tests or bone
marrow biopsy
Risk factors include smoking, ionizing radiation, chemicals, chemotherapy, and Down syndrome genetic factors and environmental factors. The exact cause of leukemia is unknown. People with a family history of leukemia are also at higher risk.
Treatment may involve some combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplant.