Overview

Leukaemia is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow and affects the production of white blood cells. It leads to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, compromising the body's ability to fight infections. Leukaemia can be acute (rapid onset) or chronic (slow progression), with various subtypes requiring different treatments.

Leukaemia develops when sudden mutations occur in the cells of the bone marrow. Children experience fatigue, weakened immune systems, and the often harsh side effects of treatment. From genetic predispositions to environmental factors, we will uncover the potential causes of leukaemia in children, offering insight into what puts them at risk. Recognising the early warning signs, such as unexplained fatigue, bruising, and frequent infections, helps parents and caregivers seek timely medical attention.

[caption id="attachment_23020" align="alignnone" width="662"] Normal blood cells vs Leukaemia[/caption]

Causes of leukaemia in Children

The exact cause of most childhood leukaemias is unknown, but scientists believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors cause it. Let’s check in detail.

Genetic factors- Some children are born with genetic changes that make them more likely to develop leukaemia. These changes can be inherited from their parents or occur randomly during development. Here are some genetic conditions that increase the risk of childhood leukaemia, including

- Down syndrome
- Fanconi anaemia
- Neurofibromatosis
- Shwachman-Diamond syndrome.

Environmental factors- Exposure to certain environmental toxins may also increase the risk of childhood leukaemia. These toxins include:

- Radiation
- Chemicals
- Viruses

Other factors- Other factors that may increase the risk of childhood leukaemia include

- Family history
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight

Symptoms of leukaemia in Children

Recognising the symptoms of leukaemia in children is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment.

- Excessive tiredness and a noticeable decrease in energy levels
- Reduced appetite
- A decrease in the number of healthy red blood cells
- Platelets reduction
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent infections
- Experiencing extreme pain in bones and joints
- Abdominal discomfort, pain, or a swollen abdomen

It is crucial to seek urgent medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of leukaemia significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.

- How is Leukaemia Diagnosed?- Early detection of leukaemia in children requires a different diagnostic test. Let's check out these tests.
- Blood test- With the help of blood tests, doctors detect abnormal levels of platelets and white blood cells (WBC).
- Genetic testing- Genetic tests aid in determining specific subtypes and inform treatment decisions.
- Lumbar puncture- If doctors suspect any cancer leukaemia cells in the fluid in the spinal cord, they perform a lumbar puncture test.
- Imaging tests- This includes tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds. These are very effective in detecting any lymph nodes.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy- It provides definitive confirmation as they analyse the marrow for leukaemia cells.

[caption id="attachment_23021" align="alignnone" width="758"] Bone Marrow Aspiration[/caption]

Treatment Options for Leukaemia in Children

Treatment options for leukaemia in children have made significant strides in recent years, offering a range of approaches to combat this challenging disease.

- Chemotherapy - It involves the use of powerful drugs to target and destroy cancer cells. This is often the first line of defence and can be administered orally, intravenously, or through injections.

[caption id="attachment_23022" align="alignnone" width="500"] Busulfan is a type of chemotherapy drug used to treat Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)[/caption]

- Radiation Therapy - This kind of therapy utilises high-energy rays to target and eliminate cancer cells, often in cases where the disease has spread to the central nervous system or other specific areas.
- Stem Cell Transplantation- Another crucial option involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells, allowing the body to generate new, healthy blood cells.
- Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy - Apart from all this, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are innovative approaches that focus on specific genetic or molecular characteristics of cancer cells, minimising damage to healthy cells. These treatments hold immense promise, particularly for cases resistant to traditional chemotherapy.

Ultimately, the treatment choice depends on various factors, including the type and stage of leukaemia, the child's overall health, and their response to previous treatments.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Hematology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Recognising the potential causes, such as genetic factors or exposure to certain environmental factors, can aid in prevention strategies. Being vigilant about common symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, and unexplained bruising can lead to immediate medical attention, increasing the chances of a positive outcome.

FAQs About leukaemia in Children

Q. What are the common types of leukaemia seen in children? A. The most common types of leukaemia in children are

- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
- Or chronic myelogenous leukaemia

Q. What causes leukaemia in children? A. The exact cause of leukaemia in children needs to be better understood. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Q. What are the six symptoms of childhood leukaemia? A. The six common symptoms of leukaemia in children may include

- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Frequent infections
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Weight loss

However, it's important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of leukaemia.

Q. What are the main treatments for childhood leukaemia? A. Treatment for leukaemia in children depends on several factors, including the type of leukaemia, its stage, and the child's overall health. Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

Q. Is there a 100% cure for leukaemia? A. No, there is no guaranteed 100% cure for leukaemia. However, advancements in medical treatments have significantly improved survival rates and led to healthy lives with proper care and management.

References

- - https://www.healthline.com/health/leukaemia/leukaemia-in-children
  - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4365-leukaemia