What is leukemia?

Leukemia is accurately defined as a blood and bone marrow cancer. It originates in the hematologic system, primarily affecting the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. In leukemia, abnormal white blood cells proliferate uncontrollably, which disrupts the normal production of blood cells and interferes with the body’s ability to produce healthy blood components like red blood cells and platelets.

This disease is characterized by an overproduction of these dysfunctional white blood cells, which can lead to symptoms such as anemia, increased infections, and easy bleeding or bruising. Understanding the nature of leukemia as a hematological malignancy highlights its systemic implications, differentiating it from solid tumors, which arise from tissue mass formations in organs. Recognizing leukemia’s classification is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient education within oncology nursing.