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Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the abnormal production of white blood cells (leukocytes). Normally, white blood cells are essential for fighting infections and protecting the body from diseases. However, in leukemia, the bone marrow produces large numbers of immature or abnormal white blood cells that do not function properly. These abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells, interfering with the body's ability to fight infections, carry oxygen, and control bleeding.Leukemia can develop rapidly (acute leukemia) or progress slowly (chronic leukemia). The main types include:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
Causes and risk factors:
While the exact cause is not always known, several factors increase the risk of leukemia:
Genetic mutations in bone marrow cells.
Exposure to high radiation or certain chemicals.
Family history of blood cancers.
Smoking and some inherited genetic conditions.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent fever and fatigue.
Frequent infections.
Unexplained bruising or bleeding.
Swelling of lymph nodes or spleen.
Weight loss and night sweats.
Other options in the question are incorrect:
Lungs: Diseases affecting lungs are called respiratory diseases, not leukemia.
Skin: Skin diseases include dermatitis, eczema, etc.
Nerves: Neurological disorders affect the nervous system, unrelated to leukemia.
Treatment:
Leukemia is treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, and targeted drug therapies. Early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment.
In conclusion, leukemia is a serious disease of the blood and bone marrow, where abnormal white blood cell production disrupts normal blood functions, leading to life-threatening complications if untreated.
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