Cancers of the blood-forming tissues. Understanding types, symptoms and modern treatments.
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, usually the bone marrow. Abnormal white blood cells multiply and crowd out normal blood production, leading to anaemia, infection risk, bruising/bleeding, and other symptoms.
Leukaemias are grouped by how quickly they progress (acute vs chronic) and by the cell lineage involved (myeloid vs lymphoid / lymphoblastic).
Choose a type below for symptoms, diagnosis notes and treatment context.
What is CML? A chronic leukaemia driven by the BCR-ABL1 fusion (Philadelphia chromosome). Modern tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have transformed outcomes for most patients.
Treatment is guided by current European LeukemiaNet (ELN) Treatment Guidelines (including 2023 updates), molecular monitoring, and individual factors.
Also: Iclusig (ponatinib), Scemblix (asciminib), Hydrea (hydroxycarbamide).
ALL is an aggressive cancer of lymphoblasts. Prompt diagnosis and multi-agent chemotherapy protocols are essential.
CLL is a chronic leukaemia of mature lymphocytes. Some patients can be observed initially; others need treatment when progressive disease or symptoms develop.
AML is a rapidly progressive myeloid leukaemia. Diagnosis usually requires blood tests, bone marrow examination, cytogenetics and molecular studies. Treatment intensity is tailored to age, fitness, and genetic risk.
Common findings that may prompt investigation — always interpreted with blood tests and specialist assessment.
Medical disclaimer: Content on this website is for patient education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor about your individual condition.