LEUKEMIA

Definition
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow. Bone marrow produces blood cells.
Leukemia can happen when there is a problem with the production of blood cells. It usually
affects the Leukocytes, or white blood cells.
Etiology and Pathophysiology
Abnormal white blood cells are increasing body of evidence incrimination viruses in
leukemogenesis in human. The life cycle of the WBC is changed and the cells do not die when
they should, thus accumulating and taking up space. Treatment is highly dependent upon the
type of leukemia.
Causes
• Neoplastic
• Radiation
• Chemical
• Hormonal factors
• Genetic factors
• Unknown
Classification
• Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
• Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
• Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Signs and symptoms
• Fever or chills
• Persistent fatigue, weakness
• Frequent or severe infections
• Loseing weight without trying
• Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver or spleen
Assessment and Diagnostic Findings

• Bone marrow aspiration

• Bone marrow biopsy
• Blood counts
• Differential leukocyte count
• Uric acid levels
Prevention and Control
• Avoiding high doses of radiation
• Exposure to the chemical benzene
• Smoking and other tobacco use
• Certain types of chemotherapy used to treat other types of cancer
Medical Management
• Systemic chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Platelet
• Bone marrow transplant
• Stem cell transplant
Nursing Management
The care plan for the leukemia patient should emphasize comfort, minimize the adverse effects of
chemotherapy, promote preservation of veins, manage complications, and provide teaching and
psychological support.
Nursing Diagnosis
• Risk for infection
• Risk for impaired skin integrity
• Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements
• Acute pain and discomfort
• Hyperthermia
• Fatigue and activity intolerance