Now Know All about Childhood Leukemia: Cause, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Childhood leukemia is the most common type of cancer found in children and adolescents, accounting for about 30% of all childhood cancers. It is a type of cancer that originates in the blood-forming tissues, particularly the bone marrow and leads to the production of abnormal white blood cells. These immature white blood cells crowd out the normal ones, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections, transport oxygen, and control bleeding. While childhood leukemia is a frightening diagnosis, medical advancements have greatly improved outcomes and many children diagnosed with leukemia go on to live healthy lives. (Source)

Also, read: Now Know Different Types of Leukemia in Children

What is Childhood Leukemia?

Leukemia is a cancer that starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It primarily affects white blood cells, which are responsible for defending the body against infection. In childhood leukemia, the bone marrow produces large numbers of abnormal, immature white blood cells (blasts) that don’t function properly. These abnormal cells accumulate in the blood, crowding out healthy cells and leading to complications like infection, anemia, and bleeding issues. (Source)

There are two main types of childhood leukemia:

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): This is the most common form, representing 75% of childhood leukemia cases.
2. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): This is less common but still significant.

Causes of Childhood Leukemia

The exact cause of childhood leukemia is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to play a role. Some of the potential factors include:

• Genetic Mutations: Certain inherited genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing leukemia. Children with genetic conditions like Down syndrome or Li-Fraumeni syndrome are at a higher risk.
• Environmental Exposure: While environmental causes are not well-defined, exposure to high levels of radiation (such as from cancer treatment or nuclear disasters) or certain chemicals may increase the risk.
• Immune System Defects: Some inherited immune system disorders may also predispose children to leukemia. (Source)

How Does Childhood Leukemia Spread?

Childhood leukemia doesn’t spread like traditional cancers that form solid tumors and metastasize to other parts of the body. Instead, leukemia cells multiply and spread through the bloodstream and bone marrow. Leukemia can also affect other organs, including the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes, causing enlargement and dysfunction. (Source)

Symptoms of Pediatric Leukemia

Symptoms of leukemia in children can be subtle and are often mistaken for other common childhood illnesses. Common signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness: Caused by anemia due to a lack of red blood cells.
• Frequent infections: Due to abnormal white blood cells that can’t fight infections.
• Easy bruising or bleeding: Caused by low platelet counts.
• Bone or joint pain: Leukemia cells can accumulate in the bone marrow, causing pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Particularly in the neck, underarm, or groin area.
• Fever: Persistent or recurrent fever without any clear infection.
• Pale skin: Anemia leads to a pale appearance.
• Loss of appetite or weight loss: This may occur as leukemia progresses. (Source)

Diagnosis of Pediatric Leukemia

If leukemia is suspected, a variety of tests are conducted to confirm the diagnosis:

1. Pediatric Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can show abnormal levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
2. Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: A sample of bone marrow is removed to check for the presence of leukemia cells.
3. Imaging Tests: In some cases, X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to assess whether leukemia has spread to other organs.
4. Genetic Tests: Testing for chromosomal abnormalities can help determine the specific type of leukemia and guide treatment decisions. (Source)

Treatment of Childhood Leukemia

Treatment for childhood leukemia depends on the type and stage of leukemia, as well as the child’s overall health. Common treatments include:

1. Chemotherapy: The main treatment for most types of leukemia. It involves using powerful drugs to kill leukemia cells.
2. Radiation Therapy: Used less frequently but may be necessary if leukemia has spread to the brain or other parts of the body.
3. Stem Cell Transplant: In severe cases or when leukemia returns, a stem cell transplant (bone marrow transplant) may be used to replace the diseased marrow with healthy stem cells.
4. Targeted Therapy: This newer type of treatment uses drugs that specifically target leukemia cells based on their genetic characteristics.
5. Immunotherapy: Emerging treatments use the body’s immune system to fight leukemia cells. CAR T-cell therapy is one such promising option. (Source)

Can Childhood Leukemia Be Prevented?

Currently, there is no known way to prevent most cases of childhood leukemia. Since the exact causes are not fully understood and many of the risk factors (like genetics) are beyond human control, preventive measures are limited. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to radiation and harmful chemicals may reduce the risk, but leukemia in children is often random and not linked to preventable lifestyle factors.

Is Childhood Leukemia Hereditary?

Childhood leukemia is not typically considered a hereditary disease. However, genetic factors can play a role. Some inherited genetic syndromes, like Down syndrome, Neurofibromatosis, and Fanconi anemia, are linked to a higher risk of developing leukemia. However, the majority of children with leukemia do not have a family history of the disease. (Source)

Can Childhood Leukemia Be Cured?

The prognosis for childhood leukemia has improved dramatically over the past few decades. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is about 90%. For acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the survival rate is about 65-75%.

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many children with leukemia can be cured. However, the possibility of relapse remains, so long-term follow-up care is essential. (Source)

Also, watch web stories: 7 Facts You Need to Know about Childhood Leukemia

Conclusion

Childhood leukemia is a serious but treatable condition. Early detection, advances in treatment, and ongoing research have significantly improved survival rates. With continuous medical advancements, the future for children diagnosed with leukemia is becoming increasingly hopeful.