Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is leukemia?
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow where abnormal blood cells are produced, disrupting the body’s ability to fight infections and maintain healthy blood cell levels.

**What are the main types of leukemia?**
– Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
– Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
– Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
– Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)

How does leukemia differ in children and adults?
Childhood leukemia, particularly ALL, is more common in children and tends to respond well to treatment. In adults, chronic leukemias like CLL and CML are more prevalent.

What are the symptoms of leukemia>
Common symptoms include:
– Persistent fatigue
– Frequent infections
– Easy bruising or bleeding
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Bone pain or tenderness

How is leukemia diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of:
– Blood tests
– Bone marrow biopsies
– Lumbar punctures
– Molecular testing to identify genetic mutations

How is leukemia treated in children?
Treatments include:
– Chemotherapy (primary treatment)
– Stem cell transplants (used for AML and CML)
– Targeted therapies and immunotherapies in some cases

What is CAR-T cell therapy, and how does it work?
CAR-T cell therapy involves engineering a patient’s T cells to target and destroy leukemia cells. It is used for certain types of ALL and other advanced leukemias.

What are the side effects of leukemia treatment?
Side effects vary but may include fatigue, nausea, increased risk of infection, and low blood cell counts. Supportive therapies like frequent blood and platelet transfusions may help.

What is the survival rate for pediatric leukemia?
The 5-year survival rates vary by type:
– Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): ~90%
– Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): 65–75%

What precautions should we take during treatment?
– Avoid exposure to infections (limit contact with sick individuals).
– Follow hygiene protocols (frequent handwashing, sanitizing surfaces).
– Maintain a healthy diet and manage side effects like fatigue or low blood counts.

What are clinical trials, and should my child participate?
Clinical trials test new treatments or methods. Discuss options with your doctor to weigh risks and benefits.