Leukemia
What is leukemia?
Leukemia, also known as blood cancer, is a cancer of blood-forming tissue that attacks the lymphatic system, bone marrow, as well as other organs. It hinders the body's ability to fight off infections. There are various forms of leukemia. Some leukemia types are more prevalent in children. Most cases of other types of leukemia are in adults.
Depending on leukemia's kind and other variables, treatment for leukemia may be difficult. However, some methods can aid in the success of your treatment.
Leukemia Blood Cancer Support Group in Fort Myers
Looking for a leukemia blood cancer support group near me? Our bladder support groups are offered in person at the Regional Caner Center or online.
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Cancer Support Groups
Cancer support groups are gatherings that provide a secure environment for those impacted by the disease to talk about their feelings and experiences with other cancer patients.
What is the difference between adult and pediatric leukemia?
Leukemia is frequently believed to be a kid's cancer, yet it affects adults considerably more frequently. Researchers are learning more about the underlying biological mechanisms that affect the ways leukemia develops in children and adults, even though the disease's symptoms are similar in both.
Looking for Pediatric Cancer Care?
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Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
Helping kids and teens fight cancer and blood disorders. Lee Health's hub for pediatric cancer care in SWFL.
What are the symptoms of leukemia?
Depending on the type of leukemia, there are many leukemia symptoms. Leukemia symptoms and indicators frequently seen include:
- Simple bruising or bleeding
- Ongoing nosebleeds
- Persistent tiredness and weakness
- Severe or persistent infections
- Shedding pounds without trying
- Swollen lymph nodes, the liver, or the spleen
- Little skin lesions that are red (petechiae)
- Excessive perspiration, especially at nighttime; soreness or tenderness in the bones
What are the different types of leukemia?
Leukemia affects white blood cells. Your white blood cells are effective infection-fighting agents; they typically grow and divide in an organized manner as required by your body.
But in leukemia patients, the bone marrow makes an excess number of dysfunctional white blood cells. There are four main types of leukemia:
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Myeloid cells interfere with the formation of healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets as acute myeloid leukemia advances quickly. It is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults.
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia: The most frequent type of pediatric cancer is acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The disease progresses rapidly and creates immature blood cells, rather than mature ones.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Elderly people are often affected by chronic myelogenous leukemia. It is brought on by a spontaneous chromosomal mutation. Many patients don't exhibit symptoms until later stages, so routine blood tests are the only way to make the diagnosis.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) develops from a type of white blood cell called B cells. It progresses slowly, usually affecting older adults.
What are the treatment options?
Depending on the type of leukemia you have, how far its developed, and your body's health. The main options are:
- Targeted Therapy
- Immunotherapy Therapy
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Stem Cell Transplant
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Cancer Surgery
At Lee Health, surgeons work as part of a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists to provide you with a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
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Chemotherapy and Infusion Services
Lee Health Cancer Institute offers outpatient and inpatient chemotherapy and infusion services in Fort Myers, FL. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment please call 239-343-9500
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