Leukemia is cancer of the white blood cells. White blood cells help your body fight infection. Your blood cells form in your bone marrow. In leukemia, however, the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells. These cells crowd out the healthy blood cells, making it hard for blood to do its work.
There are different types of leukemia, including:
1. Acute lymphocytic leukemia
2. Acute myeloid leukemia
3. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
4. Chronic myeloid leukemia
Leukemia can develop quickly or slowly. Chronic leukemia grows slowly. In acute leukemia, the cells are very abnormal and their number increases rapidly. Adults can get either type; childen with leukemia most often have an acute type. Some leukemias can often be cured. Other types are hard to cure, but you can often control them. Treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation and stem cell transplantation. Even if symptoms disappear, you might need therapy to prevent a relapse.
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1: What Is Leukemia?
Leukemia Cells
Types of Leukemia
Risk Factors
CHAPTER 2: Symptoms & Diagnosis
Symptoms
Diagnosis
CHAPTER 3: Treatment
Watchful Waiting
Chemotherapy
Targeted Therapy
Biological Therapy
Radiation Therapy
Stem Cell Transplant
CHAPTER 4: Other Considerations
Second Opinion
Supportive Care
Nutrition and Physical Activity
Follow-up Care
Sources of Support
Taking Part in Cancer Research
CHAPTER 5: Life after Cancer Treatment
What Is "Normal" After Cancer Treatment?
Getting Follow-up Medical Care
RESOURCES
National Cancer Institute
The National Library of Medicine
National Network of Libraries of Medicine
Federal Depository Library Program
Healthfinder
GLOSSARY
