Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of hematologic cancer that begins in blood-forming tissue like bone marrow.

The nationally recognized hematopathologists at the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute have the experience as well as access to leading-edge treatments. As a result, we have watched cure and survival rates increase significantly for leukemia patients.

Every one of our patients receives a tailored, multidisciplinary care plan and works with a team that includes a specialist, chemo nurse, radiation nurse, social worker and nurse navigator.

Your risk for leukemia is increased if:

• You are middle-aged or older, male and White
• You have been exposed to high levels of radiation
• You have received chemotherapy or radiation treatment for a previous cancer
• You have Down syndrome
• You have been exposed to benzene or formaldehyde
• You have a family history of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Types of Leukemia

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
• Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
• Hairy Cell Leukemia

Symptoms of Leukemia

Symptoms depend on the type of leukemia you have, but common signs include:

• Lump or swollen gland in your neck, underarm or groin
• Frequent nosebleeds, bleeding from the gums or rectum, more frequent bruising or very heavy menstrual bleeding
• Frequent fevers
• Night sweats
• Bone pain
• Unexplained appetite loss or weight loss
• Feeling tired a lot for no known reason
• Swelling and pain on the left side of the belly

Diagnosing Leukemia

We screen for leukemia with blood tests. If the blood tests are not normal, your provider will order a bone marrow biopsy to confirm a leukemia diagnosis. The biopsy will also provide information about the type of leukemia you have and what treatments should be used.

Treating Leukemia

Most diagnoses of leukemia require immediate treatment.

Treatments include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Targeted therapy
• Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant