Leukemia

Overview

Leukemia is a blood malignancy that originates in the bone marrow. Leukemia can be classified into 2 general categories: 1) Acute leukemia, and 2) Chronic leukemia. The signs and symptoms of leukemia can vary greatly from one patient to another, but can include fatigue and abnormal blood counts on lab testing. Diagnosis of leukemia is typically made by lab testing of the blood and/or the bone marrow.

Treatment Options

Treatment decisions for leukemia depend on whether a patient has chronic or acute leukemia. Some forms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) may not require therapy, if patients are not having any symptoms. Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is often treated with oral prescription medications. Treatment for acute leukemia must be determined by a physician with experience in blood disorders and cancer. Acute leukemia may require IV infusions and/or injections and/or transfusions, depending on the individual case.

Leukemia Specialists