Refractory Leukemia
What is Refractory Leukemia?
Refractory leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. It occurs when cancer cells are resistant to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Leukemia can be acute (develops quickly) or chronic (slow progressing).
Causes of Refractory Leukemia
The exact cause of refractory leukemia is unknown. However, researchers believe that it may result from genetic mutations that make the cancer cells resistant to traditional therapies. It may also be caused by the body’s immune system not responding to cancer treatments.
Symptoms of Refractory Leukemia
The symptoms of refractory leukemia can vary depending on which type of leukemia is present. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Fever and chills
- Weight loss
- High white blood cell count
- Easy bruising
Diagnosis and Treatment of Refractory Leukemia
Diagnosis of refractory leukemia is usually done through a physical exam, laboratory tests (such as blood tests and bone marrow biopsy) and imaging scans (such as CT scans and MRI scans). Treatment of refractory leukemia may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Stem cell therapy
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
Prevention of Refractory Leukemia
Since the exact cause of refractory leukemia is unknown, there is currently no way to prevent it. However, since it is linked to genetic mutations, genetic counseling may be recommended for people with a family history of the condition.
