27.600 new cases to be diagnosed in the U.S. this year. 21.000 deaths expected.
Contrary to common belief, leukemia strikes many more adults than children. Acute lymphocytic
leukemia (LLA) is the most common form among children; in the adults the common types are acute
myelogenous leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Risk factors
Certain genetic abnormalities, including Down's syndrome; excessive exposure to
ionizing radiation and some chemicals, such as benzene; exposure to the virus HTLV-1.
Warning signs
Fatigue, paleness, weight loss, repeated infections, ready bruising, nosebleeds and other
bleeding. In children these signs can appear suddenly.
Detection and diagnosis
Blood tests that look for abnormal white blood cells; bone marrow biopsy.
Treatment
Chemotherapy is the first-line treatment. Various combinations of anticancer drugs
are employed in sequence, and transfusions of blood components and antibiotics are used to
minimize the danger fromk infections. Radiotherapy of the central nervous system is used against
ALL and may also be used against other types. Bone marrow transplancts in combination with
chemotherapy can treat chronic myelogenus leukemia (CML).
Five-year survival rates
CLL: 68,6% ALL: 55.6% CML: 27,3% AML: 11,4%
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Risk factors
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