What is leukemia? Can it be cured?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
Leukemia is a malignant tumor of the white blood cell system, caused by abnormal proliferation and development of white blood cells in the bone marrow. Acute leukemia can often be cured, whereas chronic leukemia cannot be cured. If diagnosed with leukemia, it is most important to seek professional medical advice and treatment, work closely with your doctor, follow the treatment plan, and actively participate in the treatment process.
Leukemia is a malignant tumor of the white blood cell system, caused by abnormal proliferation and development of white blood cells in the bone marrow. Acute leukemia can usually be cured, whereas chronic leukemia cannot be cured.
I. Definition
In leukemia, abnormal white blood cells accumulate in large numbers and replace normal blood cells, thereby disrupting normal blood function. Leukemia can be classified into two main types: acute and chronic. Acute leukemia is characterized by rapid and uncontrolled development and proliferation of leukemia cells, leading to a massive buildup of immature white blood cells. Chronic leukemia progresses more slowly, with a gradual increase in the number of relatively mature abnormal white blood cells. Symptoms of leukemia include fatigue, anemia, swollen lymph nodes, tendency to bleed, increased susceptibility to infections, and fever. In early stages, there may be no specific symptoms; as the disease progresses, symptoms gradually worsen.
II. Can It Be Cured?
1. Yes (Acute Leukemia): The treatment goal for acute leukemia is complete remission—meaning that after a period of treatment, leukemia cells are no longer detectable. For most patients, following standardized chemotherapy regimens, 80%–90% of children and 40%–60% of adults can achieve long-term remission. For high-risk or relapsed patients, additional treatments such as bone marrow transplantation may be considered. In recent years, advances in targeted therapies have improved treatment outcomes for certain subtypes of acute leukemia.
2. No (Chronic Leukemia): Chronic leukemia is generally considered a disease that cannot be cured but can be controlled. The treatment goals are to slow disease progression, improve quality of life, and achieve long-term disease control whenever possible. Patients with chronic leukemia can maintain stable disease status through regular use of targeted drugs. Other treatment options include watchful waiting, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, with individualized plans based on each patient’s specific condition.
If diagnosed with leukemia, it is essential to seek professional medical advice and treatment, work closely with healthcare providers, adhere to the treatment plan, and actively participate in the management process.
