Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the production and function of blood cells. Bone marrow and other organs which produce blood are found to have an increased amount of immature or abnormal leukocytes. Symptoms will vary depending on the type of leukemia. The common signs are pain in bones, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits, rapid weight loss, red spots on the skin, bleeding and bruising easily, frequent infections, and fever and chills.

Though many believe that this is more common in children, it affects more adults. There are three common types of leukemia, which are:

1. Acute lymphocytic leukemia
The exact cause for this type of leukemia is unknown. There have been results that show gene mutation in bone marrow cells is the general cause. Other factors may also lead to this disease and can include genetic issues, such as down syndrome and Li-Fraumeni syndrome. It is possible that environmental factors, like radiation exposure, may also cause it. The disease will progress rapidly and signs of this disorder mimic the flu, though they do not improve as the flu does. Treatment consists of induction therapy, consolidation therapy, maintenance therapy, and preventative treatments to the spinal cord. Depending on the person and situation, the phases of treatment can span over one to three years.

2. Acute myelogenous leukemia
There are not any specific symptoms with this type of leukemia. It may include nose bleeds, bleeding gums, bruising, bone pain, or fevers. This is the most common form of leukemia in adults and leads to risks of bleeding out. Diagnosis is done with blood work or imaging The first part of treatment is chemotherapy and is the induction phase which is done to reduce the number of leukemic cells found in the blood. After this is achieved the second phase can begin, which is consolidation therapy. Any residual cells that are undetectable are removed so that only healthy cells can reproduce. It can take years to achieve full remission and prognosis depends on age and how the body reacts to treatment.

3. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Though this may only last several years, it can be a lifelong battle. The body has a difficult time trying to fight infection because that is where the cancer is located. If found earlier this disease can be treated. Doctors are able to find and treat the cancer quickly and this can increase the chances of a positive prognosis. The cancer grows slowly and if you are in the early stages most doctors will only monitor the condition. Treatment in the extremely early stage will not help. Chemotherapy will start when symptoms increase. The drug will stop cells from multiplying as quickly, including good cells. Chemo is done in 3-4 week cycles so that the body can recover in between sessions. Radiation therapy is used to destroy the cancer cells. By combining treatments it can place your body into remission. Though chances of a repeat is possible with this type of leukemia.