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Acute leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow characterized by the rapid and uncontrolled proliferation of immature blood cells (blast cells). These abnormal cells accumulate in the bone marrow, interfering with the production of healthy blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Unlike chronic leukemias, acute leukemia requires immediate treatment. There are two main types: acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Symptoms of acute leukemia develop quickly and may include general weakness and fatigue (due to anemia), frequent infections (from a weakened immune system), and easy bleeding or bruising (as a result of low platelet counts). Other possible symptoms include bone or joint pain, fever, and weight loss.
Statistics: Acute leukemia is the most common type of cancer in children (particularly ALL), though it also occurs in adults, among whom AML is more prevalent.
Heredity: Most cases of acute leukemia are not inherited. However, certain rare hereditary conditions (such as Down syndrome) can increase the risk. In the majority of cases, the disease develops due to acquired genetic mutations during a person’s lifetime.
