Childhood leukemia is the most common type of cancer in children and teens. In 2018, global cancer statistics showed 65,111 cases of leukemia in children 0–14 years of age. It is estimated that leukemia represents about 25.1% of all cancers for adolescents younger than 20.
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, the soft material at the center of bones that is responsible for 95% of the body’s blood cell production. By understanding the signs and symptoms of childhood leukemia, parents and doctors can make a crucial early diagnosis and begin treatment. Let’s look at four key points parents should know about childhood leukemia.
Common Symptoms
Childhood leukemia can sometimes be difficult to diagnose, as it often presents symptoms like those of other, less serious illnesses. However, there are several major signs that can indicate the presence of leukemia:
- Fatigue and weakness: Children with leukemia often feel very tired, weak, and dizzy because their bodies are not producing enough healthy red blood cells.
- Frequent infections: A shortage of healthy white blood cells can lead to frequent infections that are difficult to treat and become long-lasting.
- Bruising and bleeding: Unusual bruising and bleeding can occur due to a low platelet count, which affects blood clotting.
- Bone and joint pain: Leukemia cells can accumulate and overcrowd the joints or areas near bones, causing significant pain.
Unusual Symptoms
Some symptoms of leukemia are less common and may not be immediately recognized as signs of cancer:
- Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin, can indicate leukemia.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss: Children may lose interest in eating, leading to significant weight loss.
- Pale skin: Anemia caused by a lack of red blood cells can result in unusually pale skin.
- Abdominal pain: Swelling in the liver or spleen can cause discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
Diagnosis Process
If leukemia is suspected, a thorough medical examination and several tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis:
- Physical exam: A doctor will check for signs of infection, bruising, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can reveal abnormalities in the numbers and types of blood cells.
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy: These tests involve taking a sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, to look for leukemia cells.
- Spinal fluid and imaging tests: Spinal fluid tests (lumbar puncture) and chest X-rays may be used to detect signs of leukemia in other parts of the body.
Treatment Options
Treatment for childhood leukemia depends on the type and severity of the disease but generally includes:
- Chemotherapy is the primary treatment for most types of leukemia, using drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy leukemia cells or shrink tumors.
- Stem cell transplants replace diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.
- Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target leukemia cells without harming normal cells.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of childhood leukemia is vital for early detection and treatment. Parents should be vigilant regarding common symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, unusual bruising, bone pain, and less common symptoms of abdominal pain like swollen lymph nodes.
If leukemia is suspected, a series of diagnostic tests can confirm the diagnosis, and various treatment options are available to manage the disease. Always consult a healthcare professional if you notice any concerning symptoms in your child.