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Pediatric leukemia is the most common cancer diagnosed in children and adolescents, originating in the bone marrow where abnormal white blood cells are produced. These malignant cells crowd out healthy blood-forming cells, leading to anemia, infections, and bleeding disorders. The two primary types seen in children are Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), which accounts for the majority of cases, and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Chronic leukemias are rare in the pediatric population.

The exact cause of pediatric leukemia is not always known, but genetic factors, chromosomal abnormalities, and certain environmental exposures may increase risk. Common symptoms include persistent fever, fatigue, pallor, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, bone or joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosis involves blood tests, bone marrow examination, immunophenotyping, cytogenetic analysis, and molecular studies to classify the leukemia accurately. Treatment typically includes multi-agent chemotherapy administered in phases, and in selected cases, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or bone marrow transplantation. With advances in pediatric oncology, survival rates for childhood leukemia—especially ALL—have improved significantly. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care and long-term follow-up are essential to manage side effects and ensure optimal quality of life for survivors.