Handbook of Leukemia

Leukemia is a group of cancer, which occurs in the bone marrow and results in abnormal growth of white blood cells. Such cells are called blasts or leukemia cells. Bleeding and bruising, fever, tiredness and increased infections are some of the symptoms of leukemia. It can be classified as chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia. The diagnosis of leukemia is usually determined by blood tests or though a bone marrow biopsy. A variety of factors may contribute to its incidence, among which are smoking, genetics, chemical exposure, etc. Leukemia is treated with a multi-drug chemotherapy regimen, pharmaceutical medication or with radiation therapy. A bone marrow transplant is also an important strategy to treat such a cancer. This book provides comprehensive insights into leukemia. It consists of contributions made by international experts. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.