Leukemia: Diagnosis & Treatment

Overview

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells in the blood or bone marrow. It is classified into acute leukemia (such as acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)) and chronic leukemia based on disease progression and cell type involvement.

Diagnosis

A thorough diagnostic evaluation includes:

• Peripheral Blood Analysis – Identifies abnormal blood cell counts

• Peripheral Blood Smear – Examines the morphology of blood cells under a microscope

• Bone Marrow Examination (Smear & Biopsy) – Confirms leukemia by assessing bone marrow composition

• Bone Marrow Immunophenotyping – Determines leukemia subtype based on cell markers

• Chromosomal & Molecular Genetic Analysis – Identifies genetic mutations influencing prognosis and treatment response

• Spinal Fluid Examination – Detects central nervous system (CNS) involvement in leukemia

Treatment

Treatment strategies vary depending on leukemia type, stage, and patient-specific factors. The primary treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy – Includes induction therapy, CNS prophylaxis, consolidation therapy, and maintenance therapy

• Stem Cell Transplantation – Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy donor cells for long-term remission

• Radiotherapy – Used in specific cases, especially for CNS involvement

• Targeted Therapy – Molecular-based treatments designed to attack specific genetic mutations in leukemia cells

Cost of Diagnosis & Treatment:

• 60,000,000 – 110,000,000 KRW (Stem Cell Transplantation)