How to differentiate growing pains from leukemia-related leg pain
Disease description:
My child at home has been complaining of leg pain recently. I'd like to ask how to distinguish between growing pains and leg pain caused by leukemia?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Heyang
The leg pain becomes more pronounced after intense exercise, and during this period of leg discomfort, the rate of height growth is faster. The pain is especially noticeable at night, with no other symptoms present. Simple leg pain can be improved by reducing physical activity, getting more sun exposure, drinking more milk, and supplementing calcium. Although leukemia-related leg pain also occurs, it is severe, persistent, and happens both day and night. But most importantly, it is accompanied by other symptoms such as sternum pain, arm pain, recurrent fever, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes.
