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Every year, there is a rise in the number of new cases of leukaemia, and it remains one of the most harmful forms of blood cancer. For this challenging diagnosis, it is crucial for a patient and their family to comprehend constructive leukaemia information that includes its types, symptoms, and treatment possibilities.
This blog intends to shed light on such information about leukaemia and emphasise the pivotal role that specialised oncologists take in its diagnosis and treatment. Our experienced oncologists in Patiala are proficient and caring in the treatment of leukaemia and support their patients in each phase of their treatment.
Synopsis
The Basics of Leukaemia and Its Various Types
Leukaemia is a form of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. In this case, the body makes an excessive quantity of dysfunctional white blood cells. Such cells are unable to function adequately and suppress the other healthy cells, causing issues in immunity, oxygen transport, and blood clotting.
In addition to other forms of blood cancer, leukaemia stands out with four major types of classification: an acute or chronic form and the kind of white blood cell it affects.
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Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL): This is the most aggressive form of leukaemia, as it rapidly progresses and targets immature lymphocytes. It demands immediate medical attention.
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Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): This is often seen in adults, rapidly progresses and targets myeloid line cells.
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Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL): This form of leukaemia progresses at a slower pace and targets lymphocytes. It is most prevalent in the elderly population.
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Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML): CML is a form of chronic myeloid leukaemia that progresses slowly. However, it requires continuous monitoring.
Distinct treatment approaches and symptoms are associated with each type. Our oncologists in Patiala assess every patient in detail to create a specialised plan of leukaemia treatments.
Signs and Symptoms of Leukaemia
Recognising leukaemia symptoms early can potentially improve outcomes. Unfortunately, leukaemia symptoms are often non-specific, resembling common illnesses. Still, certain signs warrant medical evaluation:
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Persistent fatigue and weakness due to anaemia
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Frequent infections from lowered immunity
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Easy bruising or bleeding, including unexplained nosebleeds or gum bleeding
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Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin
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Bone or joint pain caused by marrow overcrowding
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Unexplained weight loss or night sweats
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Fever or chills without infection
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Enlarged liver or spleen leading to abdominal discomfort
Because symptoms vary by leukaemia type and individual, consultation with experienced oncologists is vital. Our oncologists in Patiala are highly sensitive to these subtle signs and conduct thorough evaluations to catch leukaemia early.
Leukaemia Diagnosis: How It’s Done
Diagnosing leukaemia involves multiple steps to confirm the presence and type of blood cancer:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Detects abnormal levels of blood cells.
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Peripheral Blood Smear: Examines the shape and appearance of blood cells.
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Bone Marrow Biopsy: The definitive test where marrow is sampled to identify leukemic cells.
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Flow Cytometry and Cytogenetic Tests: Identify leukaemia subtypes and genetic mutations.
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Imaging Tests: Such as CT scans or ultrasounds, may be done to check organ involvement.
Our oncologists in Patiala employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools to ensure accuracy, enabling precise, timely leukaemia treatment.
Leukaemia Treatment Options
The pathway to healing and management depends significantly on leukaemia type, stage, and patient health. The main therapies for leukaemia treatment include:
1. Chemotherapy for Leukaemia
Chemotherapy remains the backbone of treatment for most types of leukaemia. It uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. Chemotherapy regimens can vary from intensive inpatient treatments to outpatient cycles based on the leukaemia type. Our oncologists in Patiala carefully manage chemotherapy protocols, balancing effectiveness with minimising side effects.
2. Targeted Therapy
Newer drugs target specific genetic abnormalities within leukemic cells. For example, in chronic leukaemia like CML, tyrosine kinase inhibitors block cancer growth with remarkable success rates.
3. Radiation Therapy
Sometimes radiation is used to target leukaemia in specific areas or to prepare for bone marrow transplantation.
4. Bone Marrow / Stem Cell Transplant
For eligible patients, transplantation offers a potential cure by replacing diseased marrow with healthy cells. This procedure requires expert coordination and is offered by our specialised oncologists in Patiala.
5. Supportive Care
Managing symptoms such as infections, anaemia, and bleeding helps maintain quality of life during treatment and recovery.
Our oncologists in Patiala focus on holistic leukaemia treatment, addressing medical needs and emotional support through patient education, counselling, and continuous care.
Living with Chronic Leukaemia
Chronic leukaemia, including CLL and CML, can be managed effectively through long-term treatment plans. Many patients live years or decades with proper care and monitoring. Regular follow-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are key components.
Our oncologists in Patiala develop personalised management strategies for chronic leukaemia patients to help maintain a good quality of life and reduce disease progression risks.
The Importance of Expert Oncologists in Patiala
Leukaemia is a complex disease that requires experience and dedication from an oncology team. In Patiala, patients have access to a multidisciplinary panel of oncologists who bring outstanding clinical expertise and compassionate care to the table. Their hands-on approach ensures patients understand their condition, treatment options, and what to expect along the way, reducing fears and improving outcomes.
Although leukaemia is a worrying condition, it is among the illnesses where medicine has advanced leaps and bounds. Knowing the kinds of leukaemia, the early signs, and expert treatment for leukaemia changes the outcome drastically. Our oncologists in Patiala work in partnership with the patients and their families in drawing up and implementing treatment plans using the latest research results and with real kindness.
FAQ's
Leukaemia occurs mostly from and is associated with marked modifications to white blood cells.
Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cancer cells and reduces leukaemia burden, but requires close monitoring due to possible side effects.
Chronic leukaemia develops slowly, allowing for longer-term disease management. It differs from acute leukaemia, which progresses rapidly.
Yes, especially with acute leukaemia and selected chronic cases, outcomes have improved drastically with modern therapies, including transplantation.
Our oncologists in Patiala combine cutting-edge treatments with compassionate, personalised care to support patients and families throughout this tough journey.
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