Haematology - leukaemia Flashcards

1
Q

What is leukaemia

A

malignant blast cells which have spilled over into the blood

normally 1-2% of the cells in the bone marrow and blast cells - if there are more than 20% - this is acute leukaemia

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2
Q

name a chromosome which confers a poorer prognosis

its found in chronic myeloid leukaemia

A

philadelphia chromosome

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3
Q

presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

A

malaise, anorexia

pale, lethargic (anaemia)
infections (neutropenia)
bruising (thrombocytopenia) [these 3 from bone marrow infiltration]

hepatosplenomegaly
lymphadenopathy

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4
Q

most common childhood leukaemia? (80% of cases)

A

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

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5
Q

diagnosis

A

bone marrow biopsy for diagnosis

there many be low Hb, low platelets, and circulating blast cells on a blood smear

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6
Q

in ALL, you should do a clotting screen, Why?

A

because 10% with have DIC

dissemination intravascular coagulation

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7
Q

treatment

A

fluids + allopurinol (or urate oxidase if WCC^^)

chemotherapy for 3 years
steroids
cotrimoxazole prophylaxis

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