Can leukemia affect the eyes?

Oct 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Feng

Introduction

If leukemia is well controlled and there are no ocular complications, significant visual impairment generally does not occur. Particularly in types of leukemia such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia, during the early stages of the disease, leukemic cells primarily proliferate in the bone marrow and rarely directly invade ocular tissues, thus having minimal impact on the eyes.

Under normal circumstances, leukemia that is well-controlled may not affect the eyes; however, if leukemia is not effectively managed, it may lead to ocular complications. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Well-controlled leukemia: When leukemia is well-managed and there are no existing ocular complications, significant visual impairment generally does not occur. In particular, types of leukemia such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia primarily involve bone marrow proliferation of leukemic cells in the early stages, with minimal direct invasion of ocular tissues, thus having limited impact on the eyes.

2. Poorly controlled leukemia: In patients with leukemia, abnormally elevated white blood cell counts may lead to widespread dissemination of leukemic cells throughout the body, including the eyes. Accumulation of leukemic cells within the eye can trigger intraocular inflammatory responses, resulting in vision problems. Additionally, some treatment medications may also have adverse effects on the eyes.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, improve dietary habits, adhere to regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), enhance physical health, and reduce susceptibility to illness.

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Can children with leukemia take azithromycin?

Children with leukemia have weakened immune systems and are prone to bacterial infections (such as respiratory tract or skin and soft tissue infections). If tests confirm a bacterial infection, the causative bacteria are sensitive to azithromycin, and the patient has no contraindications such as severe liver or kidney dysfunction or drug allergies, the physician may decide to use azithromycin after carefully weighing the risks and benefits. Blood counts and liver and kidney function will be closely monitored during treatment to ensure safety.

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Which tumors require chemotherapy?

Common tumors requiring chemotherapy include leukemia, lymphoma, small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and others. Chemotherapy can be used at different stages of tumor treatment, such as curative treatment, adjuvant therapy, or palliative care, with specific regimens tailored to the individual patient's condition. If a tumor is diagnosed or treatment-related discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly consult with a physician.