Haematology - leukaemia Flashcards
What is leukaemia
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
name a chromosome which confers a poorer prognosis
its found in chronic myeloid leukaemia
philadelphia chromosome
presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
malaise, anorexia
pale, lethargic (anaemia)
infections (neutropenia)
bruising (thrombocytopenia) [these 3 from bone marrow infiltration]
hepatosplenomegaly
lymphadenopathy
most common childhood leukaemia? (80% of cases)
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
diagnosis
bone marrow biopsy for diagnosis
there many be low Hb, low platelets, and circulating blast cells on a blood smear
in ALL, you should do a clotting screen, Why?
because 10% with have DIC
dissemination intravascular coagulation
treatment
fluids + allopurinol (or urate oxidase if WCC^^)
chemotherapy for 3 years
steroids
cotrimoxazole prophylaxis