Leukemia Treatment

Leukemia is a form of blood cancer characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal blood cells. This unregulated growth occurs within the bone marrow, where a significant portion of the body's blood is produced. Typically, leukemia cells consist of immature white blood cells still in the developmental stage.

Leukemia classification can be divided into two main categories:

• Rate of Progression:

1. Acute Leukemia: In acute leukemia, the abnormal blood cells are immature, known as blasts. These immature cells are unable to perform their normal functions and multiply rapidly, causing the disease to worsen quickly. As a result, acute leukemia demands urgent and aggressive treatment.
2. Chronic Leukemia: Chronic leukemias encompass various types, some of which lead to an excessive production of blood cells, while others result in too few blood cells being produced. Chronic leukemia primarily involves more mature blood cells, which replicate or accumulate at a slower rate and can function normally for an extended period. Certain forms of chronic leukemia may initially present no early symptoms and can remain unnoticed or undiagnosed for years.

• Type of White Blood Cell Affected:

1. Lymphocytic Leukemia: This leukemia type affects lymphoid cells, specifically lymphocytes, which constitute lymphoid or lymphatic tissue a crucial part of the immune system.
2. Myelogenous Leukemia: Myelogenous leukemia affects myeloid cells, which give rise to red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelet-producing cells.

Therefore, based on above mentioned classifications leukemia prevails in following forms:

• Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): The most common leukemia type in young children, although it can also occur in adults.
• Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML): Common in both children and adults, AML is the most prevalent form of acute leukemia among adults.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): CLL, the most common chronic leukemia in adults, often has an indolent course, with some individuals not requiring treatment for years.
• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML): Predominantly affecting adults, CML may present with few or no symptoms for an extended period before entering a phase of accelerated leukemia cell growth.

There are also other, less common types of leukemia, such as hairy cell leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative disorders.

Why is Leukemia Treatment needed?

Individuals diagnosed with acute leukemia should receive prompt treatment due to the cancer's potential for rapid advancement. The primary objective of treatment is to eradicate any traces of leukemia within the body and alleviate associated symptoms, a state referred to as remission. After achieving remission, additional therapeutic measures may be administered to prevent the recurrence or relapse of the disease. These supplementary treatments are categorized as consolidation therapy or maintenance therapy. For patients in whom complete eradication of the disease via chemotherapy fails, consideration may be given to bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.

As cancer treatments often yield side effects, delaying treatment can prolong the period before these side effects need to be managed. This management method is called active surveillance or watchful waiting. During this, the disease is closely monitored. In the case of chronic leukemia necessitating treatment, active surveillance is generally proved effective in managing the disease and its associated symptoms. While chemotherapy rarely offers a cure for chronic leukemia, maintenance therapy can maintain the disease in a state of remission.

Doctors may detect chronic leukemia through a routine blood test, even before any symptoms become apparent. In such cases, or if you exhibit signs or symptoms suggestive of leukemia, your doctor will conduct diagnostic evaluation which includes:

• Physical Examination: Your physician will conduct a physical examination to identify potential physical indicators of leukemia, such as pallor due to anemia, swelling of lymph nodes, and enlargement of the liver and spleen.
• Blood Tests: By analyzing a blood sample, your doctor can assess whether you have abnormal levels of red or white blood cells or platelets, which could indicate the presence of leukemia. In some instances, a blood test may also reveal the existence of leukemia cells, although not all types of leukemia lead to the circulation of leukemia cells in the bloodstream. At times, these cells remain confined to the bone marrow.
• Bone Marrow Examination: Your healthcare provider may recommend a bone marrow test, a procedure involving the extraction of a bone marrow sample from your hipbone using a long, slender needle. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis to detect the presence of leukemia cells. Specialized tests performed on these leukemia cells can unveil specific characteristics that are essential for determining suitable treatment options.
• Lumbar puncture: It is also known as a spinal tap, may be performed by your healthcare provider to examine a sample of spinal fluid and check for the presence of leukemia in the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord.

Depending on your treatment strategy, you may undergo leukemia treatment continuously over the long term or in distinct phases. Typically, phased treatment consists of three components, each with a specific objective:

• Induction Therapy: The primary aim here is to eliminate as many leukemia cells as possible in your blood and bone marrow to achieve a state of remission. Remission is characterized by a return of blood cell counts to normal levels, the absence of leukemia cells in your blood, and the complete disappearance of all signs and symptoms of the disease. Induction therapy is typically administered over a period of four to six weeks.
• Consolidation or Intensification: In this phase, the primary objective is to eradicate any remaining, undetected leukemia cells to prevent the cancer from recurring. Consolidation therapy is usually delivered in cycles spanning four to six months.
• Maintenance Therapy: The focus here is on eliminating any residual leukemia cells that may have survived the initial two treatment phases and preventing the disease from returning, known as relapse. Maintenance therapy is typically continued for approximately two years.

Certain side effects of leukemia treatment may be temporary, resolving once the treatment is completed, while others can persist for a longer duration. It's crucial to communicate your feelings and experiences with your healthcare team, as they typically have methods to assist you. Here are some common side effects and considerations:

Fatigue (Tiredness): Fatigue can manifest as complete physical or mental exhaustion and may lead to mental fog. Managing fatigue involves finding a balance between rest and activity and understanding your limits by monitoring your symptoms.

Anemia: Anemia signifies a low level of red blood cells, which can result in tiredness and breathlessness. If you have anemia, you may be offered a blood transfusion as a treatment.

Infections: Blood cancer and treatments like chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. It's essential to recognize the signs of infection for prompt antibiotic treatment. You can take measures to reduce your infection risk, and more information on this is available.

Mucositis (Sore Mouth or Gut): This condition can cause discomfort in your mouth or along the lining of your gastrointestinal tract, which includes your esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It's a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but it can be managed with medications and typically improves over time.

Hair Loss or Thinning: Hair loss can occur due to chemotherapy and other treatments, but there are various ways to cope with it, and your hair will typically grow back once treatment concludes.

Changes in Bowel Habits: You may experience diarrhea or constipation as side effects of treatment. Medications and dietary adjustments can help manage these issues, and you can consult your healthcare team for guidance.

Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting can be side effects of treatment, but anti-sickness drugs can provide relief. Eating small, light meals or snacks and consuming items like peppermint tea, ginger-containing foods, or fizzy drinks can help alleviate nausea.

Fertility Issues: Chemotherapy can impact fertility, so it's crucial to discuss this concern with your healthcare team. They can provide information on fertility preservation options. During chemotherapy, its essential to take precautions to avoid pregnancy, as the drugs may harm the baby.

Long-Term Health Problems: Some leukemia treatments may lead to other long-term health issues, such as thyroid, heart, or lung problems. The specific risks and benefits of your treatment will depend on its type and strength, so consult your healthcare team for more information on these potential consequences.

While leukemia does not currently have a definitive cure, it's important to note that some individuals do attain prolonged periods of remission. Achieving a state of being cured from leukemia implies that the cancer is completely eradicated, will not return, and necessitates no further treatment. However, ascertaining this with certainty in the case of leukemia can be challenging.

In contrast, long-term remission denotes the absence of any detectable cancer, whether with or without ongoing treatment. Remission can persist for varying durations, ranging from a few weeks to several years, and in some instances, leukemia may never recur. If it does resurface, your healthcare provider may propose new treatments aimed at achieving remission. The determination of whether you are cured of leukemia is best addressed by your healthcare team.

Advancements in the treatment of blood cancers have led to an increase in the number of individuals living with their condition. Surviving cancer presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. Many people encounter periods when their illness is well-managed, affording them the chance to resume their normal lives.

Most individuals eagerly anticipate the conclusion of their treatment, as it marks a return to life as they knew it. However, this phase can bring about significant changes. Roles and responsibilities within the family may need to be redefined, and decisions may be required regarding when or how to rejoin the work.

The majority of people adapt successfully to life after treatment. It's important to recognize that this adjustment is a gradual process, and both you and those around you may need time to acclimate to the new circumstances. Having realistic expectations can help prevent feelings of disappointment, anger, or frustration.

People employ various coping strategies when readjusting to life after treatment, and there is no universally right or wrong approach. The concept of "normalcy" may require reevaluation, and some individuals may find it beneficial to seek support, either independently or through trusted friends or family members.

Connecting with others who have undergone similar experiences can be valuable, as they comprehend the complex issues that arise during the adjustment to a new life. Relationship or family counseling can also assist individuals in moving forward as they navigate this transformative phase of their lives.

Excluding age as a factor, there has been little alteration in new Leukemia incidence rates since 2019. However, the mortality rates have witnessed a consistent decline of nearly 2 percent annually since 2009. The National Cancer Institute provides the following statistics on survival rates for the four primary categories of leukemia:

The cost of Leukemia treatment in India is quite affordable than many Western nations, while still maintaining world-class quality. The approximate price of this procedure in India ranges from $20000 to $55000 with an average of about $35000, which is approximately one-tenth the treatment incurred in countries like the USA.

Following are the factors affecting cost of Leukemia treatment in India:

• Out of pocket expense
• Health insurance coverage
• Consultation fees
• Pre-Surgical expenses
• Type and severity of leukemia
• Surgery cost
• Hospital fees
• Doctor fees
• Patients age
• Type of procedure
• Overall health status of the patients
• Complications involved after the surgery
• City where hospital is located

The cost for diagnostic tests and evaluations linked to Leukemia treatment can fluctuate due to several factors. These factors include the particular tests needed, your choice of healthcare facility or clinic, and your geographical location. The following is the approximate diagnostic cost split for this surgery: 

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is dedicated to ensuring that your medical journey goes as smoothly and successfully as possible.

• Individualized Guidance: Personalized guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Access to a broad network of prominent hospitals, top doctors, and skilled surgeons.
• Transparent and Competitive Pricing: A full breakdown of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and offers you cost-effective solutions.
• MedFlick provides everything from travel arrangements to hotel and visa help to lodging.
• Multilingual Support: Breaking down language barriers to allow patients and medical professionals to communicate more effectively.
• The road to a successful leukemia treatment is long and challenging, full of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. With MedFlick as your guide, navigating this life-changing adventure becomes simple and liberating.