leukemia Flashcards
leukemia
a blood-based cancer in which abnormal cancer cells grow in the bone marrow - most common type of childhood cancer, accounting for almost one-third of all childhood cancer diagnosis
acute lymphocytic (lymphoblastic) leukemia: ALL
most common in children, stems from abnormal cell growth in immature lymphocytes, the white blood cells that help the body fight infection
acute myelogenous leukemia: AML
begins with abnormal growth of myeloid cells, which are responsible for the development of nonlymphocytic WBCs, red blood cells, and platelets
clinical manifestations of leukemia
-RBC shortage
-unusually pale skin
-fatigue
-weakness
-SOB
-headaches
an unusual sensation of cold
-feeling lightheaded or dizzy
-WBC shortage
-recurring infections or infections that won’t go away even with medical intervention may indicate the presence of leukemia
-fever is usually the main indicator of infection
shortage of platelets can lead to:
-easy bruising
-easy bleeding
-frequent and/or secure nosebleeds
-bleeding gums
-pathological infections
As leukemia spreads from the blood stream to other organs it can lead to:
-bone/joint pain
-swollen lymph nodes
-swelling in the abdomen caused by the build-up of cancer cells in the liver and/or spleen
-weight loss/loss of appetite
-coughing to trouble breathing
-headaches, seizures, loss of balance
-swelling of the face & arms
diagnostic testing
-bone marrow aspirations
-bone marrow biopsy
-lumbar puncture
-tumor biopsy
what does a bone marrow aspiration tell you?
looks at the cellular aspect of the marrow
what does the bone marrow biopsy tell you?
-solid portion of the bone marrow
what does a lumbar puncture tell you?
determines presence of abnormal cells in CNS
bone marrow biopsy site in infant
tibia
bone marrow biopsy site in children
iliac crest
clinical therapy purpose
-reduce or eradicate the caner
-address the effects of both the cancer and treatment
-manage side effects
what is the treatment of choice for leukemia
chemo
