How to Treat Leukemia

Jun 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My classmate was diagnosed with leukemia this month. When we heard the news, we were all quite saddened. I would like to know, how can leukemia be treated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
The main treatment methods for leukemia include the following: 1. Emergency management: For patients with excessively high white blood cell counts, a blood cell separator may be used to remove excess white blood cells, along with hydration and chemotherapy. 2. Chemotherapy: This is the preferred treatment method for leukemia. Commonly used drugs include methotrexate and cytarabine, and appropriate medications are selected based on the patient's condition. 3. Molecular targeted therapy: For example, tyrosine kinase inhibitors can precisely target and destroy cancer cells in the blood while reducing toxic side effects on normal cells. 4. Immunotherapy: Targeted treatments such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors are used, especially for patients with Philadelphia chromosome abnormalities. 5. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: This is suitable for high-risk, relapsed, or refractory leukemia patients and is currently the only curative treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia. Leukemia treatment is a complex and long-term process that requires the formulation of individualized treatment plans based on each patient's specific circumstances.