The manifestation of small blood spots in the early stage of leukemia

In the early stages of leukemia, patients may experience some nonspecific symptoms, among which "petechiae" or bruising are common manifestations. The main characteristics of early-stage petechiae (small red spots) include the following:

1. Appearance: Petechiae are usually pinpoint in size, bright red in color, and widely distributed. They can appear on the skin throughout the body, especially commonly on the face, palms, soles, and lower limbs, with a higher frequency on the extensor surfaces of the legs. These red spots do not fade when pressed and may fade and disappear after several days, only to reappear elsewhere afterward.

2. Associated symptoms: The appearance of petechiae in early leukemia is often accompanied by symptoms of anemia, such as pale complexion, weakness, and shortness of breath after physical activity. In addition, patients may also experience systemic symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes.

3. Underlying causes: Patients with leukemia have reduced platelet counts and impaired blood clotting function, leading to the formation of hemorrhagic spots due to capillary fragility, known as petechiae. Leukemia cells infiltrate the bone marrow and interfere with the function of megakaryocytes in producing platelets, further increasing the tendency to bleed.