Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most common leukemia in children aged 1 to 6 years. The disease progresses rapidly and is based on a disruption of the hematopoiesis process and the production of immature leukocytes (lymphoblasts). These cells spread throughout the body and form tumors in the liver and spleen, in lymph nodes, the CNS, and other organs.
Causes
It is believed that the risk of developing leukemia is somewhat higher in children with Down syndrome, low immunity, neurofibromatosis, and genetic predisposition. However, in most cases, a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia does not exhibit all of the above-mentioned causal factors, so the true causes of the disease remain unknown.
Symptoms of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
The main signs of leukemia are related to disruptions in hematopoiesis. These include symptoms of anemia and malignant poisoning of the body - lethargy, pallor, poor appetite, and weight loss. Signs of thrombocytopenia include bruising and bleeding, gum, nasal, and intestinal bleeding, and skin hemorrhages. The proliferation of lymphoblast cells is accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin. There may be an enlargement of the spleen and liver. The disease may be accompanied by joint and bone pain, pathological bone fractures, weakness against infections, and damage to other organs.
Diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Israel
The most reliable method for diagnosing leukemia in Israel is a bone marrow examination through a spinal tap. At the same time, the doctor orders laboratory tests for the levels of red blood cells and platelets, and the presence of blast cells. Additionally, a computed tomography scan and ultrasound examination of the internal organs may be performed.
Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Israel
The intensity of therapy depends on the patient's condition. The treatment algorithm is always the same. The first stage is to eliminate the signs of the disease through intensive chemotherapy. In the second stage, a stable result is achieved. For about six months in Israel, the patient undergoes consolidation courses of chemotherapy, which help eliminate residual malignant cells in the body and prevent the return of the disease. In the third stage, for 2-3 years, the patient takes maintenance medications. In severe forms of the disease, after achieving remission, a bone marrow transplant may be performed in Israel.
Prevention
There are no definitive recommendations for the prevention of leukemia, but genetically predisposed individuals should avoid exposure to suspected causal factors.