Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are all hematologic cancers, or cancers of the blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes. More than 100,000 cases of these cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year, with over 50,000 deaths reported annually. These diseases can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, including children. Leukemia is the most common cancer among children and teens under 20 years of age, and the leading cause of cancer death in this age group.
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Leukemia
According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, the spongy tissue found in the center of the bone. It develops when certain blood cells produced in the bone marrow grow out of control.
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Symptoms of leukemia can be vague, often resembling symptoms of common illnesses such as the flu, and include:
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- Fever or chills
- Persistent fatigue, weakness
- Frequent infections
- Losing weight without trying
- Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver or spleen
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Tiny red spots on your skin
- Excessive sweating, especially at night
- Bone pain or tenderness
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While scientists do not fully understand the causes of leukemia, research has indicated that exposure to large amounts of radiation and benzene, which is often found in cigarettes, increases the risk of leukemia.
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Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a general term for cancers that start in the lymph system, or more specifically, in the lymph nodes. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the two primary types of lymphoma.
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Symptoms of lymphoma include:
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- Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits or groin
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Chest pain, coughing or trouble breathing
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
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According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, more than 660,000 Americans were living with lymphoma in 2011, including those in remission. The causes of lymphoma are unknown.
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Myeloma
A cancer of the plasma cells, myeloma causes these cells to overgrow, forming a mass or tumor located in the bone marrow where red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are made. Myeloma is more common in people over the age of 45, with the majority of cases found in men over the age of 65. Doctors divide myeloma into two groups that are described by how slowly or rapidly the disease is progressing:
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-?????? Asymptomatic or smoldering myeloma has no symptoms and tends to progress very slowly;
-?????? Symptomatic myeloma progresses quickly, with related symptoms including anemia, kidney damage and/or failure, bone damage/fractures, and high calcium levels in the blood, which can cause excessive thirst, nausea, constipation, loss of appetite and confusion.
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If you or someone in your family exhibits any of the symptoms of leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma, it is essential to talk with your doctor immediately. Once properly diagnosed, these diseases can be treated through a wide variety of medical interventions. Early detection offers your best chance for effective treatment.
For more information about North Florida Regional, please call our 24/7 Consult-a-Nurse?physician referral and healthcare information line at 1-800-611-6913. ?
Talk to Us:
-?????? Have you or has any one in your family been diagnosed with a hematologic cancer or disorder?
-?????? Do you have any advice for families with children facing leukemia?
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