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Leukaemia
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. It can be fast-growing (acute) or slow (chronic), and symptoms come from a lack of healthy blood cells.
Causes & risk factors
- Exact cause is often unknown
- Previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Certain genetic conditions (e.g. Down syndrome)
- Heavy exposure to benzene and some chemicals
- Smoking (for some types)
- Family history in a minority of cases
Common symptoms
- Tiredness and paleness (from anaemia)
- Frequent infections or fevers
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Swollen glands
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss and bone pain
Tests & diagnosis
- Full blood count
- Blood film examination
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Genetic and flow-cytometry tests on blood/marrow
Treatment & management
- Chemotherapy is the mainstay for many types
- Targeted therapy for certain genetic subtypes
- Stem-cell (bone marrow) transplant in some cases
- Some slow chronic types are watched before treating
- Supportive care — transfusions and treating infections
When to see a doctor urgently
- Unexplained bruising, bleeding or repeated infections
- Persistent tiredness, fever or night sweats
- Swollen glands or bone pain that does not settle
Frequently asked questions
Is leukaemia always fast and life-threatening?
No. Acute leukaemias develop quickly and need urgent treatment, but chronic types can be slow and are sometimes just monitored for years. A specialist determines the type.
How is leukaemia diagnosed?
It usually starts with a blood count and blood film, followed by a bone marrow biopsy and genetic tests to confirm the type and guide treatment.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.