Leukemia

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis Treatments and drugs Coping and support

Definition

Leukemia is cancer of your body's blood-forming tissues, including your bone marrow and lymphatic system. It usually starts in your white blood cells.

Your white blood cells are potent infection fighters — they normally grow and divide in an orderly way, as your body needs them. But in leukemia, your bone marrow produces a large number of abnormal white blood cells, which don't function properly. Leukemia isn't just a children's disease. It has four main types and many subtypes — and only some are common among children.

A diagnosis of leukemia can cause you a great deal of concern, and treatment can be complex — varying on the type of leukemia and other factors. But there are strategies and resources that may make your road easier.

NEXT:

Symptoms