Leukemia

 

Leukemia

Definition

It is a cancer of the white blood cells(WBCs).

Classification

 

WBC TYPE	Type of leukemia	Nature of leukemia
Neutrophil	Myeloid	.Acute. .Chronic.
Lymphocyte	Lymphatic	.Acute. .Chronic.
Monocyte	Monocytic	.Acute. .Chronic.
Eosinophil	Eosinophilic	.Acute. .Chronic.

 

Acute Leukemia

Clinical features

1.It is seen in children.

2.The onset is sudden.

3.High fever.

4.Weakness.

5.Purpura.

6.Haemorrhagic tendency.

7.Anaemia.

8.Infections.

         .Stomtitis

         .Cellulitis.

         .Herpes simplex.

         .Bronchitis.

          .Pneumonia.

9.Ulceration of the oral mucosa.

10.Splenomegaly:Enlargement of spleen.

11.Lymphadenopahy:Enlargement of lymph nodes.

12.Bone pain,especially in the sternum.

 

Investigations

1.Haemogram

          .Hb:Low.

          .WBC count:>500000/cmm.

          .Peripheral smear:Immature,abnormal WBCs.

2.Bone marrow examination: Leukemia cells.

 

Treatment

1.Vincristine IV.

2.Metgotrexate or cyclophosphamide as a cytotoxic agent.

3.Prednisolone orally.

4.Radiotherapy may be combined with the preceding treatment.

5.Treatment of anaemia.

6.Antibiotics.