Leukemia is a disease of the bone marrow and blood known to affect the normal production of blood cells. Normal blood cells have a limited life span and must be constantly replaced by fresh, young cells in order to continue their activity. In the bone marrow, there is a type of cell (stem cell) that matures into the type of blood cells the body needs. In a normal state, these stem cells develop in a controlled manner into either red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Leukemia disrupts the normal development of blood cells and causes the accumulation of partially developed cells that are unable to fulfill their role within the body.
Judging by the speed of development and persistence of the disorder, there are two types of leukemia: acute leukemia and chronic leukemia. Depending on the types of stem cells affected by the disorder, leukemia can be either lymphocytic or myelogenous.
Acute leukemia differs from chronic leukemia in the level that the stem cells are able to reach during their development (stem cells with abnormalities still manage to partially develop and either resemble immature cells or complete, normal white blood cells).
Inside the body of people with acute myeloid leukemia, the bone marrow produces stem cells that make a kind of partially mature white blood cell called myeloblasts. This type of blood cell does not reach a state of full maturity and cannot fulfill its intended role. Myeloid cells tend to multiply very quickly and outnumber healthy blood cells, which makes it easier for anemia, infections, and weakens the body's immune system. Diseased cells can also spread to other parts of the body, for example to organs.
As statistics show, there are many annual cases of the disease, acute myeloid leukemia is the most common type of leukemia. Although the disease is known to resolve quickly when appropriate treatment is given, if left untreated, it can cause the death of the affected person. This form of leukemia tends to relapse and can develop again over time.
Regardless of age and gender, many people are diagnosed with a form of leukemia. Children tend to respond better to some types of leukemia, while adults have a hard time coping with the disease. Cases of acute leukemia exceed cases of chronic leukemia by approximately 10 percent. Older adults appear to be most affected by acute leukemia. About two-thirds of acute leukemia cases appear to occur after the age of 60. Leukemia is a serious form of cancer and requires immediate treatment. With proper treatment, especially in its initial stages, leukemia can be successfully overcome.
Each type of mature blood cells has specific traits and roles inside the body. White blood cells or leukocytes have an important role in the immune system, contributing to overcome infections. White blood cells also help in healing flesh wounds and cuts. Red blood cells or erythrocytes contain hemoglobin, which has a great importance in transporting oxygen to the cells within the organism. Red blood cells are vital for the process of cell respiration, carrying oxygen to cells and removing carbon dioxide from them. Platelets have an important role in repairing damage at the level of blood vessels, accumulating to seal any cuts or tares.
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