Leukemia, a malignancy, originates in the bone marrow and spreads to the blood cells. Bone marrow is the flexible and porous inner part of certain bones where blood cells are produced. Childhood leukemia is distinguished by abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow, which result in the displacement of regular blood cells.
The child may exhibit symptoms such as fever, exhaustion, hemorrhaging, contusions, or infections that do not respond to therapy due to the compromised functioning of excessive blood cells.
Timely identification of childhood leukemia is imperative because of the unique physiological attributes of children’s bodies. Leukemia can be diagnosed with a comprehensive medical evaluation and analysis of blood samples. A pediatric oncologist, a specialist in treating pediatric cancer, conducts these operations.
A blood test called a complete blood count can ascertain the number of blood cells in the bloodstream, including platelets (which assist in blood clotting) and red blood cells.
Bone marrow is a gelatinous material found inside the bone and is placed in the central area of specific bones.
The leukocyte count in the circulatory system can function as an indication. An increased number of white blood cells can be a sign of leukemia.
The doctor may require a bone marrow aspiration or biopsy if the blood tests produce atypical findings. These tests ascertain whether the cancer has metastasized to the bone marrow. Bone marrow is a gelatinous material found inside the bone and is placed in the central area of specific bones, such as the hip bone. A small amount of bone marrow, either in liquid or solid form, is removed using a needle.
The specimen is sent to a laboratory for examination. It can detect the presence of leukemia cells in the bone marrow and identify the precise kind of leukemia.
Alternative testing methods may include using ultrasound (sonogram) to inspect blood vessels, bones, soft tissue, and specific body areas, such as the belly or head.
Karyotype, a specific hematological test, can detect anomalies in cellular DNA.
Karyotype, a specific hematological test, can detect anomalies in cellular DNA. This can assist physicians in identifying the precise subtype of leukemia and predicting its likely response to treatment.
Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital offers modern diagnostic methods like fluorescence in situ hybridization and gene sequencing, which can identify genetic disorders that are not detectable with traditional karyotyping.
There are multiple treatments available for the different types of leukemia. Viable treatment alternatives include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or stem cell transplant.
Stem cell transplantation replaces damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy and functional stem cells. Possible treatment options include surgical interventions and other medical procedures, as well as supportive care such as nutritional support, physical therapy, and psychiatric aid.
The probability of developing leukemia may be increased by various medical diseases and other ailments.
The cause of leukemia is still unknown, although it is believed that genetic predisposition and environmental factors may increase the likelihood of developing this type of cancer.
Moreover, the probability of developing leukemia may be increased by various medical diseases and other ailments, including some infections and radiation exposure.
Some persons have a heightened vulnerability to leukemia as a result of the medications they take or the nature of their professions. Workers engaged at nuclear power plants or individuals who have been exposed to asbestos have an increased vulnerability to developing leukemia.
