LeukemiaTaylor Edwards

What is Leukemia?Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that

begins in the bone marrow. The bone marrow starts making abnormal white blood cells which overthrow the normal white blood cells along with red blood cells and platelets. All of the normal cells can no longer function correctly.

TypesThere are two types of Leukemia: Chronic

and Acute.Chronic leukemia happens when the normal

blood cells can still work but not completely. There may not be apparent symptoms at first but things can get worse as the abnormal cells build up.

Acute leukemia happens when the normal cells can no longer function correctly at all. The abnormal cells grow rapidly and get worse faster.

SymptomsPatients with chronic leukemia may not

experience symptoms. The most common symptoms are:

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpitFevers or night sweatsFrequent infectionsFeeling weak or tiredBleeding and bruising easilySwelling/discomfort in the abdomen from swollen spleen

or liverWeight lossPain in bones or joints

How is it detected?There are different tests to detect Leukemia

depending on what kind you have.You can have a physical exam, blood test or a

biopsy.Some test can be performed by the doctor

such as cytogenetics, spinal tap or a chest x-ray.

Medications and treatmentsThere are many treatments for patients, but

once again it depends on what type of leukemia you have. It also depends on the features of the cancer, your health, age and if the cells were found in your CSF.

The most common treatments are:Watchful waiting- used for chronic patients.ChemotherapyTargeted therapyBiological therapyRadiation therapyStem cell transplant

DietsIt is important for leukemia patients to have a

diet that will lower risks of infections and strengthen their body.

A good diet will include lean proteins, milk products, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains and some fats.

All of the foods need to be cleaned off very well and the cooked items need to stay separate from uncooked to prevent contamination.

Citations http://mainehealthcancer.org/Cancer%20Information/Pages/What-i

s-Leukemia.aspx?gclid=COabksGh6rkCFcmf4AodYBQAiA http://www.omicspublishinggroup.com/leukemia/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leukemia http://janprogressblog.blogspot.com/2007/10/bone-marrow-biopsy.

html http://www.livestrong.com/article/278670-diet-for-leukemia-patien

ts/

http://www.livestrong.com/article/544227-nutrition-therapy-for-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia/